Meyer Lemon Tree

The Meyer Lemon Tree, scientifically known as Citrus x meyeri, is a popular and highly prized evergreen citrus tree, celebrated for its unique, sweeter, and less acidic fruit compared to traditional lemons. Believed to be a natural hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange, its origins trace back to China, where it was likely cultivated for centuries before being introduced to the Western world. It thrives in mild, temperate to subtropical climates and prefers full sun with consistently moist, well-drained soil. In regions like Phoenix, Arizona, its heat tolerance allows it to flourish, though some afternoon shade can be beneficial during the most intense summer months. As a long-lived perennial, a Meyer Lemon Tree can remain productive for 30 to 50 years or more with proper care.

Its most distinctive characteristics include its compact, bushy growth habit, typically reaching 6-10 feet tall and wide, making it well-suited for smaller gardens, containers, or even as an indoor plant in cooler climates. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and somewhat rounded, creating a lush canopy. Unlike many citrus trees, the Meyer Lemon has few to no thorns, making harvesting much easier. It is a remarkably prolific producer, often bearing fruit almost continuously throughout the year in warm climates, with peak seasons typically in late fall, winter, and early spring. The fragrant, white flowers with purple bases are produced in flushes, leading to successive crops of fruit. The fruit itself is medium-sized, rounder than a true lemon, with smooth, thin, deep yellow to orange-yellow skin when ripe. The pulp is juicy, less tart, and distinctly aromatic, with a hint of floral notes. Its ornamental appeal, delicious fruit, and adaptability make the Meyer Lemon Tree an excellent choice for home gardens, container planting, and as a fragrant and productive addition to edible landscapes, particularly thriving in the Phoenix, Arizona climate.