Meyer Lemon Tree

The Meyer Lemon (Citrus x meyeri) is Australia's favourite backyard lemon for good reason: a naturally compact 3m tree that carries thin skinned, sweeter than standard lemons through the cooler months, often flowering and fruiting at the same time. A cross between a lemon and a mandarin, it is the hardiest of the common citrus, cropping happily from Cairns courtyards to frost edged Melbourne gardens, and it thrives in a large pot.

Why you'll love it

• A gentler lemon. Meyer fruit is juicier and less acidic than a Eureka, smooth skinned and gold tinted, brilliant for drinks, dressings and desserts.
• The hardiest citrus. It handles cold snaps that damage other lemons, which is why it is the default choice for southern and inland gardens.
• Compact and non invasive. Around 3m tall with well behaved roots, safe near paths and easily netted or picked.
• Perfumed blossom, then fruit. Waves of scented white flowers keep bees busy and the fruit coming for months.
• Pot perfect. In a 50cm to 60cm container it becomes a productive feature for a sunny balcony or terrace.

Where it works best

Small gardens. As a feature tree near the kitchen door, it earns its spot in fruit and fragrance.

Pots, balconies and courtyards. Full sun, premium potting mix and regular feeding are the entire recipe.

Cooler districts. Against a warm north facing wall a Meyer crops where no other lemon will.

Growing the Meyer Lemon in Australia

Position and climate. Six or more hours of sun. It suits subtropical, warm temperate, Mediterranean and cool temperate climates; it takes light frost once established, with young trees appreciating a cover on freezing nights.

Soil. Free draining and enriched with compost, or premium citrus mix in pots. Plant slightly proud on clay soils.

Water and feed. Citrus are hungry: water deeply whenever the topsoil dries, and feed with citrus fertiliser in early spring, midsummer and early autumn. Even moisture prevents fruit drop and skin splitting.

Pruning. Light only: remove shoots below the graft, dead wood and crossing branches after harvest, and thin heavy crops on young trees.

What to expect when it arrives

Meyer lemons are grown to order in tube and 400mm sizes and currently show as backorder: we confirm timing with you before anything is charged or shipped. Tubes are the patient, economical route; 400mm trees arrive close to fruiting age. Delivery is Australia wide, from $29.95, with a minimum order of $300 before delivery. Every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee. Expect first meaningful fruit within one to two seasons from a 400mm tree.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Lemon tree care guide
• Browse all lemon trees
• Compare the full citrus range

Common questions

What makes a Meyer different from a normal lemon?

Parentage. The mandarin in its background makes the fruit sweeter, thinner skinned and less acidic, and the tree smaller and hardier. Purists keep a Eureka for sharpness; households live off the Meyer.

When does it fruit?

Mainly through autumn and winter, with flowers and fruit often on the tree together, and scattered fruit almost year round in warm climates.

Why is my tree dropping small fruit?

Some natural shedding of excess fruit is normal. Heavy drop usually means uneven watering or hunger; mulch, water deeply and keep the feeding calendar.

Is it safe for pets?

The fruit in your kitchen is fine, but citrus foliage and skin oils are not safe for cats and dogs to chew, so position pots away from determined nibblers.