Kafur limuni (Eucalyptus citriodora)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Time to harvest: 180–365 days
Frost limit: −1 °C

Cultivation

Prefers a sunny position in a moderately fertile well-drained moisture retentive circum-neutral soil. A very fast growing species but it is not very hardy in Britain. It might succeed outdoors in the mildest areas of the country. Eucalyptus species have not adopted a deciduous habit and continue to grow until it is too cold for them to do so. This makes them more susceptible to damage from sudden cold snaps. If temperature fluctuations are more gradual, as in a woodland for example, the plants have the opportunity to stop growing and become dormant, thus making them more cold resistant. A deep mulch around the roots to prevent the soil from freezing also helps the trees to survive cold conditions. Cultivated in warm temperate areas for its essential oil, it thrives in a Mediterranean climate. The trees cast a very light shade. Plants are shallow-rooting and, especially in windy areas, should be planted out into their permanent positions when small to ensure that they do not suffer from wind-rock. The flowers are rich in nectar and are a good bee crop.

Propagation

Seed - surface sow February/March in a sunny position in a greenhouse.

Edible uses

Produces a sweet manna-like substance that is scraped off the leaves and eaten.

Medicinal uses

Eucalyptus leaves are a traditional Aboriginal herbal remedy. The essential oil found in the leaves is a powerful antiseptic and is used all over the world for relieving coughs and colds, sore throats and other infections. An oleo- resin is exuded from the tree.

Material uses

A lemon-scented essential oil is obtained from the leaves. The leaves and the essential oil are used as an insect repellent. The bark may contain up to 12% tannin. The wood is good for saw-timber and is used for general construction, poles, railroad ties, and tool handles.