Citrus meyeri 'Improved Meyer'

Meyer Lemon Tree (Citrus meyeri 'Improved Meyer') is a very popular and easy to grow lemon, which can bloom and produce fruit year around. Large, aromatic, light orange-coloured lemons follow the abundant, fragrant flowers. Compared to common store-bought lemons, these are juicier, less acidic, and sweeter. The large 3 inch (2.5 cm) diameter fruits are rounded, and lack the pointed nipple of true lemons. While the smooth, thin skin makes this citrus perishable in the commercial market, it is perfect for home growing.

The glossy, dark green leaves are a lovely contrast against the pretty, waxy-white, and very fragrant flowers. This Dwarf Lemon Tree is grafted onto Flying Dragon rootstock, keeping the height below 5 ft. Hardy to zone 9a, it needs to be grown in a container to be brought indoors when temperatures dip. Place the container in a sunny window during the cold months and enjoy tropical fruit in the winter! Meyer Lemon tree variety is self-fertile, but you can help it set fruit if there are blossoms in the winter by taking a small brush and moving pollen from flower to flower.

Citrus meyeri is believed to be a hybrid cross of C. limon (lemon) and C. reticulata (mandarin orange). Interestingly, this native Chinese tree is called 'Improved Meyer' because the original Meyer Lemon plants were all destroyed due to a virus and replaced with this virus-free variety.

Citrus meyeri 'Improved Meyer' is an excellent small tree for fruit production, and is ornamentally attractive both inside the home and outdoors. Use Improved Meyer lemons in any recipe that calls for a lemon - for your favourite cocktail, lemon squares and meringues, dressings and lemonade.