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Meyer Lemon Tree

Citrus × meyeri

Meyer Lemon Tree
TreeRutaceaeUSDA Zone 811Moderate growthModerate maintenance

Suitability Score

Meyer Lemon Tree in 91107: 90/100

Excellent

Meyer Lemon Tree in 91107 (Pasadena): 90/100: excellent match for zone 10a.

About

Meyer Lemon Tree (Citrus × meyeri) is a popular tree valued by home gardeners for its beauty and manageable care requirements.

Quick facts

Scientific name

Citrus × meyeri

USDA zones

8 to 11

Growth rate

Moderate

Mature height

15–25 ft

Mature width

10–15 ft

Toxicity

Mild, citrus oils

Growing requirements

Sun requirements

Full sun (6+ hours)

Water requirements

Deep water weekly; more in summer

Soil preferences

Well-draining loam

Flowering

Spring to early summer bloom typical; some species flower in fall

Fruiting

Produces edible fruit when mature; timing varies by climate and cultivar

Pollinator value

Many fruit and flowering trees support bees, butterflies, and birds when in bloom

Companion plants

Complement with low groundcovers; avoid shallow-rooted competitors under canopy

Recommended soils

Fertilizer recommendations

Common pests

Common diseases

Root rotmedium risk

Yellowing, wilting despite wet soil, mushy roots

Treatment: Repot in fresh mix; trim rotten roots; fungicide drench

Citrus greeninglow risk

Asymmetric yellow mottling, bitter misshapen fruit

Treatment: No cure. Remove tree to protect neighbors

Care guide

Watering

Deep water weekly; more in summer

Sunlight

Full sun (6+ hours)

Soil

Well-draining loam

Fertilizer

Feed during active growth with a formula suited to tree plants. Reduce or stop in dormancy.

Pruning

Prune dead or crossing branches in late winter. Shape lightly after bloom for flowering types.

Repotting

Container plants benefit from repotting every 2–3 years with refreshed soil.

Seasonal care

Zones 8–11: protect from extremes outside range. Adjust watering seasonally: less in winter for most plants.

Beginner tips

Start with consistent deep water weekly; more in summer. Place where it gets full sun (6+ hours). Check soil before watering.

Overwatering, insufficient light, and pest outbreaks are the most common issues. Match care to the plant's native habits.