Meyer Lemon

Citrus x limon (SI-trus LEE-mown)

Family: Rutaceae Unknown Shrub (3-15 ft)

Meyer lemon is a small, broadleaf, evergreen, flowering, woody tree in the Rutaceae (citrus) family. It is most commonly grown as an ornamental, though the fruits are edible. Native to China and introduced into the United States by Frank Meyer in the early 1900s, it is a cross between a citron and a mandarin-pomelo hybrid, distinct from the common or bitter lemon. Grow it in full sun to partial shade and consistently moist, well-drained soil. It prefers drying out and then receiving a good watering. The best performance and fruit production occur in full sun. Fertilize only while growing, spring to fall, and reduce watering during winter months. Prune branches to improve airflow and maintain a smaller size. Fruit clusters can also be pruned to one or two fruits to produce larger, healthier fruit. As it cannot survive frosts, the Meyer lemon is best grown in a container so that it can be brought inside for the winter in zones below 8b or 9a. When indoors, keep in a sunny location, south-facing windows providing the most sun. In order to produce fruit indoors, hand-pollinate flowers and continue to fertilize every three months. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Watch for mites, scale insects, whiteflies, aphids, and caterpillars. If you notice ants on the plant outdoors in spring it may indicate scale issues. The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common citrus insect and related pests. VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Nuts," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Citrus x limon .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 64 attributes.