Allotments 4 All

Produce => Non Edible Plants => Topic started by: Jayb on May 12, 2010, 07:19:35

Title: Help needed to identify this plant
Post by: Jayb on May 12, 2010, 07:19:35
I'm wondering if this could be a lemon eucalyptus?

[attachment=1]
[attachment=2]

This seedling appeared last summer in a pot growing a home grown chilli plant. When I transplanted it to its own pot I noticed a gorgeous lemon fragrance coming from its leaves. I overwintered it in the house although no idea what conditions it needs. It is now about 12'' tall and back in the greenhouse, definitely a strong scent of citronella. 

Any ideas what it is and how to look after it?
Title: Re: Help needed to identify this plant
Post by: guerriero75 on May 12, 2010, 07:47:11
Hi Jayb...

I think you spot on, looks really like a Lemon Eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora), the oils are great from that plant. I think its quite rare too.

Well done for keep it...by the way, I hope you have a very very very big garden due to the fact that will grow up to 150 feet tall
Title: Re: Help needed to identify this plant
Post by: suncekoret on May 12, 2010, 19:17:02
Yep it does look like Lemon Eucalyptus, but don't worry it won't reach 150ft because it's not very hardy. It would be best grown in a large container and protected over winter.
I grew some from seed many years ago and found it quite an interesting find - what a lucky find for you
Title: Re: Help needed to identify this plant
Post by: Jayb on May 12, 2010, 19:32:27
Thanks Guerrierro,  :o 150' a tad big, I was hoping to grow it in a pot!
Does anyone know if it is hardy in the UK?
Title: Re: Help needed to identify this plant
Post by: Jayb on May 12, 2010, 19:38:17
Thanks Suncekoret, I'm still trying to work out where it came from  :-\
Ah a large pot it is then  ;D
Is it possible to take cuttings?
Title: Re: Help needed to identify this plant
Post by: suncekoret on May 16, 2010, 16:50:38
It's all but impossible to root cuttings of Eucalyptus, always grown from seed.

Try Chilterns Seeds - I think they have it