Leptospermum liversidgei aka Citron Scent Teatree

Leptospermum liversidgei belongs to Myrtaceae, the myrtle family. This shrub keeps its leaves all year. Its common name is lemon-scented tea tree. It comes from eastern Australia. Its range runs from Queensland to northeastern New South Wales. This includes southeastern Queensland and coastal swamps in New South Wales. Kew places it in the subtropical climate zone. It grows to about 13 feet [4 metres] tall.

The leaves smell of lemon, but scent strength varies. Plants grown in Britain may have a much weaker scent. Plants For A Future lists flowers in June and July. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen to pollinate the flowers. The supplied evidence gives no fruit or bark details for this species. Gardens gain scented leaves that stay on all year. One suggested site is a sunny woodland edge.

Grow it in full sun, not shade. Give it moist soil that drains well. It accepts sand, loam, and clay of fair quality. It prefers a light sandy loam. Choose soil that is a little acid or neutral. Shield it from hot or cold winds that dry plants out. It can stand strong winds but not exposed seaside sites. Its home in coastal swamps does not mean it suits such gardens.

Only mild parts of Britain suit outdoor growth. Plants For A Future reports cold tolerance near 14°F [−10°C]. It also lists USDA zones 7–10. Shield young plants through their first one or two winters outdoors. Do not disturb roots when you plant or move it. Reports differ on regrowth from old wood after cold damage. Do not count on such regrowth after a harsh winter. Sow seeds under glass in spring, with a thin cover. Keep young plants grown from seed under glass for their first winter. You can also grow new plants from cuttings.

Dried leaves can take the place of tea and give a lemon scent. Plants For A Future also records use to kill bacteria. People have used oil drawn from the leaves for this. These uses do not show what dose is safe for medicinal use. The same source lists no known hazards for this species. This does not prove it safe for pets or as concentrated oil. It lists no weed concern. The supplied evidence names no pests or diseases specific to this species.