Backhousia citriodora

A low-branching, evergreen shrub or small tree that grows to around 8m tall. Can be pruned to be kept small.

The leaves of Backhousia are a fresh green colour and strongly lemon-scented when crushed. The young foliage is reddish and shoots and undersides of the leaves are often hairy. The attractive white flowers are numerous and produced in long-stalked clusters and have numerous fluffy stamens which are twice as long as the petals. The fruit is a nut-like capsule which contains several small seeds.

Prefers full sun to partial shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Can be frost tender when young.

Always choose healthy, well-grown plants and plant after autumn rains. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter pot. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root plant to plant in. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow-release fertiliser. After this, apply organic fertiliser (such as blood and bone) at a handful per square metre in spring. For windy positions, staking may be required. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, peat, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.

Apply mulch annually to discourage weed growth and help maintain moisture. Avoid mulching near the main trunk. Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser; sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2-3cm of the soil, unless on very fertile soils. The first summer and autumn after planting are critical for young plants, so water thoroughly during dry periods. If staking is required in windier sites, then check the ties regularly for chafing and constriction and remove as soon as plants are strong enough to withstand winds without damage.

If needed, prune after flowering to promote new growth and to maintain a compact habit.

Edible Garden

Australian Aborigines have long used Backhousia as a traditional bushfood and medicine. In the 1990s, it became popular as a flavouring in the growing Australian bushfood industry. This has now become its main use. Fresh or dried leaves can give a lemon flavour to vegetables soups or casseroles. Whole leaves can be stuffed in fish or poultry in baking. For example, add ground leaves to a shortbread-type biscuit recipe, sauces, desserts and liqueur. It can be used as a herbal tea by steeping the leaves in boiled water. The lemon odour is used in cosmetics while the essential oil is a strong source of citral, which is used in perfumes, soaps, facial creams, deodorants, cosmetics, air fresheners and cleaning products. To freshen the house, hang scented sachets on wardrobes or on door handles.