Description

Meyer lemon (often listed as Citrus Tree Meyer Lemon) is a beloved citrus with a naturally compact habit, glossy evergreen leaves, and flowers that perfume the air. Believed to be a lemon × mandarin hybrid, it produces rounder, thin‑skinned lemons with lower acidity and a floral sweetness, ripening to rich yellow with hints of orange. It blooms intermittently through the year in warm, bright conditions and sets fruit readily when pollinated—outdoors by bees, or indoors with gentle hand pollination. Perfect for patios, sunrooms, and bright kitchens.

Suggested Uses

• Patio or Balcony Containers
• Bright Indoor Edible Accent
• Conservatory / Sunroom Specimen
• Espalier on a Sunny Wall (frost-free)
• Kitchen Garden in Large Pot
• Pollinator-Friendly Courtyard

Plant Details

• Botanical NameCitrus Tree Meyer Lemon
• Common NameCitrus Tree, Meyer Lemon
• Size & Growth4–6 ft tall in containers (1.2–1.8 m); 6–10 ft (1.8–3 m) in-ground in frost-free climates; moderate spread and dense, compact canopy.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 8b–11 outdoors; grow in containers and overwinter indoors in colder zones.
• Foliage TypeBroadleaf evergreen; glossy, aromatic leaves.
• Bloom TimeIntermittent year-round in bright, warm conditions; peak flushes in spring and late summer.
• Growth RateModerate; faster with heat, strong light, and regular feeding.
• Light RequirementsFull sun outdoors (6–8+ hours). Indoors, brightest south/west window or high-output grow lights (12–14 hrs).
• Attracts PollinatorsYes—nectar-rich blossoms attract bees and other beneficial insects outdoors.
• Indoor FriendlyExcellent—thrives in bright rooms with supplemental light and stable temperatures.
• Container FriendlyYes—ideal for 15–20 in (38–50 cm) wide pots with sharp drainage; easy to move for winter protection.
• Deer ResistantTypically deer-resistant due to aromatic foliage and thorns; not preferred browse.
• Pet WarningCitrus leaves, peels, and seeds contain essential oils/psoralens that can be harmful to pets—keep out of reach.
• FragrantHighly fragrant blossoms; aromatic foliage and fruit oils add a fresh citrus scent.
• Cut FlowerOccasionally used for small, fragrant arrangements; blooms are short-lived once cut.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Sun-loving, well-drained companions: rosemary, thyme, lavender, marigold, basil (separate containers recommended).

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsChoose a pot 2–4 in wider than the current root ball with large drainage holes. Use a citrus or cactus mix; gently loosen circling roots. Set at the same depth as the nursery pot with the trunk flare visible and the graft union kept well above the soil line. Water thoroughly to settle.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Water when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry; water deeply until excess drains, then empty saucers. Reduce frequency in winter with lower light.
• Soil TypeFast-draining, slightly acidic mix (pH 5.5–6.5). Blend high-quality potting soil with bark/perlite or use a dedicated citrus mix.
• HumidityPrefers 40–60% RH indoors. Use a pebble tray or room humidifier in dry homes; ensure good air circulation to discourage pests.
• Pruning InstructionsPrune lightly after major harvests or late winter. Remove crossing, weak, or inward branches and any suckers below the graft. Pinch soft tips in summer to shape and encourage branching; avoid heavy pruning while heavily in fruit.
• Winter CareMove indoors before nights drop below 40°F (4°C). Provide brightest light or grow lights, 55–70°F (13–21°C), and steady moisture without overwatering. Keep away from heat vents and cold drafts; rotate the pot weekly for balanced growth.
• Planting DepthPlant so the original soil line matches the new level; keep the graft union 4–6 in (10–15 cm) above the soil surface and the trunk flare exposed to prevent rot.
• FertilizationFeed with a citrus-specific fertilizer containing micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Mg). Apply monthly during spring–early fall (or use slow-release per label). Pause or reduce feeding in winter. Address yellowing leaves with chelated iron if needed.
• Special CareHand-pollinate indoor blossoms with a soft brush for heavier fruit set. Monitor for scale, spider mites, and mealybugs—treat early with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Flush the pot with clear water every 2–3 months to remove salt build-up; repot every 2–3 years into fresh mix.

Tip: Consistent light and moisture are key. Sudden changes can cause leaf or fruit drop—adjust gradually when moving plants between indoors and outdoors.