How to Grow Lemon Myrtle
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Lemon Myrtle
Backhousia citriodora
shrubLemon myrtle is an evergreen Australian native shrub prized for its intensely lemony-scented leaves that are 2-3 times more fragrant than lemon itself. The plant produces delicate white or pale pink flowers in spring and summer, followed by small dark berries. It's both ornamental and highly useful in culinary applications.
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Example Lemon Myrtle timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lemon Myrtle
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Lemon Myrtle
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lemon Myrtle dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; requires frost protection in zone 9
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Get my Lemon Myrtle timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-8 weeksTiny seedlings with delicate true leaves emerging; very slow initial growth
Keep soil consistently moist. Provide bright, indirect light. Use well-draining seed-starting mix. Avoid disturbance.
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant develops multiple stems and root system; begins forming characteristic narrow, glossy leaves
Maintain moderate moisture. Protect from frost. Begin light fertilizing monthly with balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness.
Vegetative Growth
1-2 years or ongoingShrub expands in size with dense foliage; strongly aromatic leaves are fully developed
Water regularly. Apply light pruning to shape. Fertilize monthly during growing season. Mulch around base to conserve moisture and regulate temperature.
Flowering
4-8 weeksDelicate white or pale pink flowers appear in terminal clusters, highly fragrant and attractive to pollinators
Maintain consistent watering. Do not over-fertilize with nitrogen, which reduces flowering. Flowering occurs spring/summer in mild climates.
Fruiting & Harvest
Ongoing after flowering; leaf harvest continuous year-roundSmall dark berries (drupes) develop following pollination; leaves remain harvestable throughout the year
Continue regular watering. Harvest leaves as needed for culinary or ornamental use. Berries are edible but minimal and primarily for wildlife or seed propagation.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; prune heavily infested branches
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Remove affected leaves; apply neem oil spray; encourage natural predators
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide or neem oil if severe; ensure adequate humidity
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Isolate plant; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; use systemic insecticide for severe infestations
Uses
Flavoring & Culinary Herb
CulinaryLemon myrtle leaves are used fresh or dried to flavor beverages, desserts, seafood, chicken, and Asian dishes. The intense lemon aroma provides 3x the citral content of conventional lemon, making it ideal for teas, marinades, and garnishes. [source]
Fragrance & Aromatics
HouseholdDried leaves are used in potpourri, sachets, and homemade cleaning products. Essential oil extracted from leaves is prized in perfumery and natural fragrance products. [source]
Traditional & Wellness Uses
MedicinalAustralian Aboriginal cultures traditionally used lemon myrtle for medicinal purposes. Modern herbalism values it as a digestive aid, antiseptic, and antimicrobial agent in teas and tinctures. [source]
Decorative Landscape Plant
OrnamentalLemon myrtle is grown for its attractive evergreen foliage, delicate flowers, and ornamental berries. The aromatic foliage provides sensory appeal in gardens, borders, and container plantings. [source]
Pollinator & Bird Support
WildlifeThe flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while berries provide food for native birds and wildlife, making it valuable for ecological gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves year-round by pinching or cutting from branch tips; young leaves are most tender and aromatic. Avoid harvesting more than one-third of the plant at once. Best harvested in morning after dew dries. Berries are ready when dark and slightly soft (summer); use fresh or dry for later use.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lemon myrtle leaves contain up to 90% citral, the compound responsible for lemon aroma—significantly higher than actual lemon fruit, making it one of the most intensely lemony plants on Earth.
- 🌱 This plant is native only to the rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia, and was relatively unknown outside Australia until recent decades; it's now gaining popularity in specialty culinary markets worldwide.
- 🌱 The leaves can be dried and stored for years without significant loss of aroma, making lemon myrtle an excellent herb for long-term pantry storage and a favorite among specialty spice merchants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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