Eucalyptus citriodora (Bekele-Tesemma, 2007)
| Eucalyptus citriodora (Bekele-Tesemma, 2007) |
Eucalyptus citriodora Myrtaceae Eastern Queensland (Australia)
Common names
- English: Lemon gum, Spotted gum
- Amargna: Shito bahir zaf
Ecology
A tall tree that grows in a wide range of climates, and performs very well in Moist Kolla and in Moist and Wet Weyna Dega agroclimatic zones in Shoa and Harerge, 1,800–2,000 m.
Uses
Firewood, charcoal, timber, poles, bee forage, medicine (leaves), windbreak, essential oils (citronellal).
Description
The tree may reach 40 m, with leafy and evergreen drooping foliage, the crown rounded.
- BARK: Jigsaw patterned, with patches of grey, brown, yellow; older bark smooth grey‑white.
- LEAVES: Very long and narrow, veins parallel to the edge.
- FLOWERS: Smooth oval buds on stalks, white flowers in groups of 4 - 8.
- FRUIT: Rather large, oblong cup‑shaped, about 1 cm across, in clusters.
Propagation
Seedlings.
Seed
Species is not a prolific seeder like other Eucalyptus spp. Germination rate 60–90 %. 110,000– 1,200,000 seed per kg.
- Treatment: Not necessary. Mix with sand for more even sowing.
- Storage: Seed can be stored.
Management
Coppicing.
Remarks
The tree is easily identified by the strong scent of lemon oil in the leaves which perfumes the air, especially after rain. Young seedlings are susceptible to termite attack. Large branches are brittle and break off in high winds. It produces heavy wood from the straight trunk, but the timber is often attacked by borers (Lyctus spp.).
