Deep, regular irrigation; not drought tolerant. For established trees, wet soil 2–3 feet deep beneath and slightly beyond the canopy, then allow the upper few inches to dry. Water more frequently during extreme summer heat and less in winter; keep water away from the trunk.
An evergreen citrus tree producing juicy, tart, yellow lemons with few seeds; productive in Phoenix with adequate irrigation, summer sun protection, and frost protection.
Light: Full sun; afternoon shade is beneficial in Phoenix, especially for young trees. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Water: Deep, regular irrigation; not drought tolerant. For established trees, wet soil 2–3 feet deep beneath and slightly beyond the canopy, then allow the upper few inches to dry. Water more frequently during extreme summer heat and less in winter; keep water away from the trunk.
Soil: Well-drained sandy loam preferred; tolerates alkaline soil but may develop iron deficiency. Avoid poorly drained locations, and plant with the root flare slightly above grade.
Mature size: Typically 12–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide on standard rootstock; dwarf rootstocks generally remain 6–10 feet tall and wide.
Bloom: Main bloom in spring, with additional flowers possible throughout the year during mild weather; fruit commonly ripens in fall through spring.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate; faster with adequate warmth, irrigation, and citrus fertilization.