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Meyer Lemon Blossom Wikimedia Commons
Rutaceae

Meyer Lemon Blossom

Citrus × meyeri

Domestic abundance and homegrown sweetness.

Family
Rutaceae
Genus
Citrus
Native to
China
Bloom season
Spring, Fall
Type
evergreen tree
Height
200–300 cm
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
rich, well-drained, slightly acidic
Water
moderate; consistent moisture
Hardiness
9–11
Lifespan
perennial tree; 30–50 years

Did you know

  • Meyer lemon is actually a hybrid between a true lemon and a mandarin or sweet orange, which explains its sweeter flavor.
  • It was introduced to the US in 1908 by Frank Meyer, a USDA plant explorer who found it growing in dooryard pots in Beijing.
  • The original Meyer lemon carried a devastating citrus virus; today's 'Improved Meyer' is a virus-free clone released in 1975.
  • A single indoor Meyer lemon tree can produce 50–100 lemons a year in a sunny window.
  • The blossoms are intensely fragrant — a single blooming tree can perfume an entire room for weeks.

Color meanings

White

pure promise of fruit to come

Purple-Tinged

the marriage of lemon and mandarin

Uses

  • culinary (fruit and zest)
  • indoor ornamental tree
  • perfuming patios
  • container gardening