Meyer Lemon

Citrus × meyeri | Sweet, fragrant lemons with thinner skin and mild tartness

The Meyer Lemon is a popular hybrid citrus known for its compact habit, glossy foliage and abundantly fruitful nature. The fruit features a smooth, thin rind that can carry a slight orange-tinge, and the flesh is juicy, aromatic and less acidic than standard lemons. Ideal for both garden beds and containers, it combines great edible value with ornamental appeal.

Plant Care

Sun: Full sun is best — at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for strong growth and fruiting.
Soil: Moist, fertile and well-drained; amend heavy or free-draining soils with organic matter to improve structure and water retention.
Water: Moderate — keep soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root issues.
Fertiliser: Use a balanced citrus fertiliser starting in early spring, then again in midsummer; ensure micronutrients (iron, magnesium) are present if foliage shows pale or yellowing symptoms.
Pruning: Prune lightly after harvest to reshape and open the canopy. Remove any dead or crossing branches, and avoid heavy cuts that may reduce fruiting.
Top tip: Mulch the root zone to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature. Protect/drape young trees or container specimens in colder areas during frost risk.

Specifications

Botanical name: Citrus × meyeri
Common name: Meyer Lemon
Growth habit: Semi-compact tree or large shrub, often well-suited to containers or small garden spaces
Size: Approximately ±2-3 m H × ±1.5-2.5 m W when managed; size can be controlled via pruning or pot-growing
Fruit: Round to slightly oval lemons; rind smooth and thin, colour varies from deep yellow to slight orange-tinge at full maturity
Flesh/juice: Juicy, aromatic, with a sweeter and less sharply acidic flavour than typical lemons
Harvest: Usually late winter through spring; timing will vary with local climate and growing conditions
Uses: Fresh eating, zesting, juice, desserts, culinary flavouring, container and garden specimen

Quick Facts

• Vibrant and attractive citrus with edible fruit and ornamental form.
• Sweeter, aromatic flavour makes it versatile in culinary uses.
• Suitable for full-sun gardens or patio containers with proper care.