Citrus limon

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Citrus limon, native to Northwestern India, is a large shrub or small tree, 5-10 feet tall, in full sun with regular water. The white or off-white flowers are fragrant, and the mature plant is cold hardy to temperatures at least as low as the 30s F for a brief period. Citrus limon is grown best in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.

It is an ethnomedical plant, used throughout time for many medical properties such as its antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anti-rheumatic qualities. Additionally, lemon is edible and has many culinary uses. The fruit is rich in vitamin C, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, E, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and fiber.

Citrus limon does best in a pot in colder regions. Potted lemon trees should be kept in an area with the most available sunlight and watered regularly. Plant the lemon tree in rich, well-draining soil in a pot with drainage and ensure that the pot is large enough for a few years of growth. Give it regular fertilizer along with plenty of water during the growing season. Protect the lemon tree from frost to ensure success and when temperatures reach freezing, move the tree indoors or provide frost protection.

Similar plants:

• Citrus aurantifolia (Mexican Lime, Key lime, West Indian lime)
• Citrus australasica, Microcitrus australasica (Finger Lime, Caviar Lime)
• Citrus australis (Australian Lime)
• Citrus bergamia (Bergamot orange)
• Citrus grandis, Citrus maxima (Pomelo, Pommelo, Pummelo)
• Citrus hystrix (Indonesian lime, Wild lime, Kaffir Lime)
• Citrus junos (Yuzu)
• Citrus limetta (Sweet Lime, Sweet Lemon)
• Citrus limettioides (Indian Sweet Lime, Palestinian Lime, Lima Dulce, Pinata Lime)
• Citrus limon Pink (Pink Lemonade Lemon)