GRAFTED / Corymbia citriodora 'Baby Citro'

Dwarf Lemon-Scented Gum, Baby Lemon Scented Gum

Botanical Name: Corymbia citriodora 'Baby Citro'
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Queensland, Australia (dwarf cultivar)
Plant Type: Grafted evergreen tree

Overview

A remarkable grafted dwarf form of the beloved Lemon-Scented Gum, 'Baby Citro' delivers all the aromatic charm of its towering parent in a perfectly scaled-down package. This compact cultivar maintains the distinctive lemon-scented foliage and attractive mottled bark while staying at a manageable size for suburban gardens. The grafting ensures consistent dwarf characteristics and improved performance in various soil conditions.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 5-6 m H x 4-6 m W
• Growth Rate: Moderate; 25-40 cm per year; upright habit with naturally compact branching
• Foliage: Narrow lanceolate leaves, blue-green to grey-green, intensely lemon-scented when crushed
• Flowers: Creamy white fluffy clusters, late summer to autumn, lightly fragrant
• Seasonal Interest: Mottled bark develops attractive pink, cream and grey patches year-round
• Wildlife Value: Flowers attract native bees, butterflies and honeyeating birds
• Tolerance: Drought, moderate frost to -5°C, coastal conditions, wind, clay soils, heat
• Planting Density: Feature specimen: 3-4 m apart; grove planting: 2-2.5 m apart
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to pets; aromatic oils may cause mild stomach upset if large quantities consumed

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun for best growth and essential oil production; tolerates light afternoon shade
• Soil: Well-drained soils preferred; adapts to sandy, loam or clay; avoid waterlogged conditions
• Water Needs: Establishment: 12-16 weeks, twice weekly deep watering. Established: Summer fortnightly; Winter monthly or rainfall only
• Maintenance: Minimal; light pruning to maintain shape if desired, remove lower branches for trunk display
• Lifespan: 40-60 years
• Climate Zones: All SA regions including Adelaide Hills, coastal areas, inland plains and Riverland
• Soil pH: Adaptable 5.5-7.5, slightly acidic to neutral preferred

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Perfect feature tree for courtyards and small gardens where space is limited
• Plant near outdoor entertaining areas to enjoy the delightful lemon fragrance
• Combine with other native plants like Grevillea 'Robyn Gordon' and Westringia for a water-wise Australian garden

Why You Will Love It

This is the eucalyptus you've always wanted but never had space for! 'Baby Citro' brings the iconic Australian character and heavenly lemon scent to any garden without the worry of it outgrowing your property. The grafted rootstock ensures reliable performance while the naturally compact form means you can enjoy this stunning native beauty for decades to come.