Lemons grow on trees. The lemon plant, scientifically classified as Citrus × limon, is an evergreen species belonging to the Rutaceae family, which includes all citrus. This plant is a hybrid, thought to be a cross between the bitter orange and the citron, and is native to Southern Asia. While the term “bush” might suggest a low-growing, multi-stemmed plant, the lemon plant’s natural growth habit is distinctly arboreal. The lemon tree is cultivated globally in suitable subtropical and Mediterranean climates for its tart, aromatic fruit.
The Lemon Plant: Defining Tree vs. Shrub
The lemon plant is defined as a small tree, though its growth habit can sometimes appear bushy or shrub-like. A standard lemon tree grown in the ground can reach heights between 10 and 20 feet, with some vigorous varieties growing up to 30 feet. The plant develops a single, woody trunk, which is the defining characteristic of a tree, in contrast to the multiple, slender stems of a true shrub.
The appearance of a lemon tree can sometimes blur the line between a tree and a large shrub, particularly when unpruned. If left untended, the lemon tree often takes on a spreading, bushy form. Dwarf cultivars, such as the popular Improved Meyer lemon, are intentionally bred to be smaller and more compact, often staying under 10 feet, making them suitable for container gardening. However, the underlying botanical structure, including a single, thick trunk and considerable height, confirms its classification as a tree.
Unique Characteristics of the Lemon Tree
The lemon tree is a broadleaf evergreen, meaning it retains its foliage throughout the year. The leaves are a dark, glossy green on top and lighter underneath; young leaves may initially have a reddish tint before maturing. This foliage is aromatic, releasing a citrus scent when crushed, which is characteristic of the entire Citrus genus.
A notable feature of the lemon tree is the presence of sharp thorns, especially on the twigs of younger growth or certain varieties like the Lisbon lemon. The blossoms are highly fragrant and appear white on the upper surface, often showing a reddish-purple tint in the bud stage. Lemon trees frequently bloom and produce fruit simultaneously, allowing the tree to carry both flowers and ripening lemons at the same time.
Essential Needs for Growing Lemons
Lemon trees thrive in warm, subtropical, and Mediterranean-like climates, making them sensitive to frost. They require full sun exposure, ideally receiving six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure healthy growth and abundant fruit production. In cooler regions, the plant is typically grown in containers and moved indoors for the winter to protect it from freezing temperatures.
The soil must be well-drained and slightly acidic, with a preferred pH range between 5.5 and 6.5, as the roots cannot tolerate standing water. Consistent and deep watering is necessary, particularly for young trees, but overwatering can quickly lead to root rot. Newly planted trees propagated by grafting generally begin to produce fruit within three to five years.