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Lemon Tree

Lemon Tree

Citrus limon

Basic Information

🌿 Family: Rutaceae

🗺️ Zone: 9-11

Other Names:

  • Citrus × limon

🌡️ Ideal Temperature : 70°F°F – 85°F°F

🔥 Heat Tolerance: Up to 100°F°F

❄️ Cold Tolerance: Down to 25°F°F

🌱 Type: Perennial

Layers

  • Canopy

Functions

  • Edible
  • Medicinal
  • Pollinator
  • Wildlife Attractor
  • Border Plant

Pests

No pests associated with this plant.

Companions

Plants to Avoid

  • Walnut

Description

The Lemon Tree is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree, typically reaching heights of 3 to 6 meters (10 to 20 feet). It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces fragrant white to pink-tinged flowers. The fruit is a bright yellow, oval-shaped berry with a distinctive sour taste. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and are used in a variety of culinary and medicinal applications. The tree thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soils and requires full sun exposure.

🌞💧 Sun and Water Requirements:
Lemon Trees require full sun, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They prefer consistent moisture but are sensitive to waterlogged conditions. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to maintain soil moisture without oversaturation.

✂️🫘 Methods to Propagate:
Propagation is commonly achieved through grafting onto compatible rootstocks to ensure desired fruit characteristics and disease resistance. Seed propagation is possible but may not produce true-to-type plants and can result in variable fruit quality.

🧑‍🌾👩‍🌾 When to Harvest:
Lemons can be harvested when they have developed full coloration and have a slight give when gently squeezed. Depending on the variety and climate, this can occur multiple times a year, with some trees bearing fruit year-round.

Purpose

- Edible: Lemons are widely used in culinary applications, including beverages, desserts, and as a flavor enhancer in various dishes.
- Medicinal: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemons support immune health and have been used traditionally to aid digestion and treat colds.
- Pollinator: The fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators, enhancing the pollination of nearby plants.
- Wildlife Attractor: The tree provides habitat and food for various bird species and beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.
- Border Plant: With its dense foliage and manageable size, lemon trees can serve as effective hedges or border plants in landscape design.