Citrus limon

Citrus limon

Lemon

●

Taxonomy

Family Rutaceae · Genus Citrus

Common Names

LemonLemon tree

Context

nativeRegion

Northeast India, northern Burma, and China (selectively bred, now globally cultivated).

usdaZones

9–11 (can be grown in pots and overwintered indoors in colder zones).

companionPlants

lavender, marigold, rosemary

culturalUses

Widely used for culinary purposes; valued for fruit, juice, zest, and medicinal properties.

Care

LightFull sun (at least 6-8 hours direct sunlight per day).

WateringWater deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

SoilWell-draining, slightly acidic loam; pH 5.5–6.5.

FertilizerFeed with balanced or citrus-specific fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season.

HumidityPrefers moderate humidity; tolerate average indoor humidity.

TemperatureBest growth at 22–30°C (72–86°F); sensitive to frost below 0°C (32°F).

HabitSmall tree or large shrub, evergreen.

Mature Size3–6 meters (10–20 feet) tall.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingFragrant white flowers can appear year-round, mainly spring and summer; fruit follows.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler months.

Methodsseeds, cuttings, grafting, air layering

DifficultyModerate (grafting is standard for true-to-type fruit)

Best SeasonLate winter to early spring

PruningPrune lightly after harvest or in late winter to shape and remove weak growth.

RepottingRepot younger container plants every 2–3 years; older trees as needed.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, scale, spider mites, citrus leaf miner, root rot, and fungal diseases.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans but leaves and parts may cause mild GI upset in pets.

No public plants yet.