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Lemon Myrtle - Backhousia citriodora (Girri girri) seeds

Lemon Myrtle - Backhousia citriodora (Girri girri) seeds

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Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle
The Queen of Australian lemon herbs, prized for its fragrant foliage and culinary versatility.

Quick Facts

  • Height: Medium-sized shrub or tree reaching up to 8 meters tall.
  • Flowers: White, fragrant blooms from summer to autumn.
  • Foliage: Highly aromatic lemon-scented leaves, rich in essential oils.
  • Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; tolerates a variety of soil types.
  • Position: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
  • Climate: Slightly frost-tender when young; suitable for warm, temperate regions.

Why Grow Backhousia citriodora?

Lemon Myrtle is a must-have for native gardens or edible landscapes. Known as the "Queen of the Lemon Herbs," its fragrant leaves add a burst of tangy, citrusy flavour to sweet and savoury dishes. Whether grown as an ornamental shrub, container plant, or a source of fresh herbs, Lemon Myrtle brings beauty, versatility, and practicality to any garden.

Bush Food Note

The tangy, aromatic leaves of Lemon Myrtle are a culinary treasure:

  • Culinary Uses: Add to teas, syrups, cakes, biscuits, sauces, glazes, ice creams, dips, dressings, and meat dishes.
  • Flavour Profile: A unique blend of citrus, lemon, and mint enhances both sweet and savoury recipes.
  • Harvesting: Pick fresh leaves as needed or dry them for long-term use.

Bush Medicine

Lemon Myrtle has long been valued for its medicinal properties:

  • Applications: Treat bites, acne, bacterial infections, and sores.
  • Other Uses: Effective as a natural mosquito repellent.

Disclaimer: Information about traditional bush medicine is provided for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before use.

How to Grow

  1. Sowing Instructions:

    • Soak seeds overnight in water to soften the seed coat.
    • Sow seeds in trays with seed-raising mix, covering them lightly.

  2. Position:

    • Place in a warm, sheltered spot with indirect sunlight.
    • Suitable for outdoor planting or as a container plant for indoors.

  3. Care Tips:

    • Mist regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
    • Protect young plants from frost.
    • Prune to shape or encourage bushy growth.

Uses in Your Garden

  • Culinary Herb: A staple for those cultivating native bush foods.
  • Ornamental Value: Fragrant foliage and clusters of white flowers add charm to any garden.
  • Container Plant: Thrives indoors or on patios with proper care.
  • Low-Maintenance Shrub: Easily maintained with minimal watering once established.

Germination Tips

  • Timeframe: Germination can take 3–8 weeks.
  • Moisture: Keep the seed-raising mix consistently moist by misting regularly.
  • Warmth: Position in a warm spot to encourage germination.
  • Patience: Germination may vary; ensure consistent care during this period.

Notes

The Indigenous name for Lemon Myrtle, "girri girri," reflects its dual uses, meaning both "sour" and "urine." This highlights its cultural and functional significance.

Order Now

Bring the fragrance and versatility of Backhousia citriodora to your garden. Its aromatic leaves, bush food potential, and medicinal qualities make it a cherished addition to any landscape.

Order your Lemon Myrtle seeds today and experience the Queen of the Lemon Herbs!