Citral is a clear yellow colored liquid with a lemon-like odor. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Toxic by ingestion. Used to make other chemicals.

Citral is present in the oils of several plants, including lemon myrtle, Litsea citrata, Litsea cubeba, lemongrass, lemon tea-tree, Ocimum gratissimum, Lindera citriodora, Calypranthes parriculata, petitgrain, lemon verbena, lemon ironbark, lemon balm, lime, lemon, and orange.

Geranial has a strong lemon odor. Neral's lemon odor is less intense, but sweeter. Citral is therefore an aroma compound used in perfumery for its citrus effect. Citral is also used as a flavor and for fortifying lemon oil. It also has strong antimicrobial qualities, and pheromonal effects in insects.