Lemon

Also known as: Lemon

An evergreen small tree or shrub with spiny stems, ovate to elliptic leaves, and strongly fragrant white flowers tinged with purple. The oval yellow fruit is juicy and acidic, maturing in autumn. It has a rounded, open canopy and glossy dark green foliage, offering year-round ornamental appeal.

Scientific classification

Species: Lemon (Citrus limon)
Genus: Information to be completed
Family: Rutaceae

Non-toxic to humans and pets, though the essential oils in the peel may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Toxicity: Tree · Fruit Edible
Plant type: 2 - 3 metres
Height: 1.5 - 2.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Upright · Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Lemon pictures

Distribution of Lemon

Distribution map

Southeast Asia (probably northern India, Myanmar, and southern China)

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets, though the essential oils in the peel may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Quick identification of Lemon

Information to be completed

Lemon care guide

Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; allow surface to dry slightly between waterings.
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; allow surface to dry slightly between waterings.

Fertilizing

Every 2 weeks during growing season (spring to early autumn).

Pruning

Prune in late winter to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and to shape the tree. Light pruning can be done after harvest to maintain size.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, using bottom heat (20-25°C) and rooting hormone for best results. Alternatively, grafting onto compatible rootstocks is common for commercial production.

Growing

Plant in a sheltered, sunny position in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the top of the compost to dry slightly between waterings. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks from spring to early autumn. Protect from frost by overwintering indoors or in a cool greenhouse in cold regions. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches.

More growing and care information →