• Common in Australia, Lemon Myrtle is a medium sized tree with glossy green leaves that produces white, puffy flowers in the spring. The tree is noted for its insect resistance and is grown as an herbal for culinary use and for its essential oils. The oil in the tree carries high levels of citronella, which give the tree the scent of lemon or lime. Use the fresh leaves for cooking or the dried leaves for potpourri.
  
  

Pests

• Lemon Myrtle is unaffected by insect pests. The high citronella content acts as a repellent for the tree and surrounding vegetation. It even makes an effective mosquito deterrent. The biggest threat to the tree is in plantation cultivation when grown adjacent to grazing areas. Hoofed animals trod on the vegetation and root systems of the plant creating structural damage. Even rabbits and other rodents dislike the scent of the tree and avoid the plants.
  
  

Diseases

• The primary disease of Lemon Myrtle is Myrtle rust. This affects plants in the Myrtaceae family, among others. It has been the reason for quarantine in Australia, Hawaii and several other areas. A fungus that is grown from spores spreads the rust disease. The spores, distributed by the wind, contaminate materials and machinery, insects and birds and even clothing. The rust shows up as small red bumps on the plant and then within a couple of days turns a sickly yellow color.
  
  

Cultivation and Prevention

• Lemon Myrtle is an easy plant to grow in moist, well-drained soil. It requires full sun and fertile soil in areas sheltered from winds. The plant makes an excellent hedge or kitchen garden specimen. Use fencing in areas where large herbivores roam. Some fungicides control myrtle rust but no chemical offer a complete cure. Prevent spread by removing infected plants and cleaning up debris and plant materials from around the growing area.