Here’s a detailed description of the lemon plant:
🍋 Common Name
Lemon Plant or Lemon Tree
🌿 Botanical Name
Citrus limon
🌳 Plant Characteristics
Type: Evergreen fruit-bearing tree or shrub
Size: Typically grows 10–20 feet (3–6 meters) tall, though dwarf varieties reach about 3–6 feet (1–2 meters)
Canopy: Rounded and densely branched with a spreading or upright habit
Trunk: Short and often branched near the ground
🌱 Leaves
Shape: Elliptic to ovate
Color: Glossy, dark green on top and lighter underneath
Texture: Leathery with a fragrant citrus aroma when crushed
Size: 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long
Arrangement: Alternate
🌸 Flowers
Color: White petals with purplish tints on the underside
Fragrance: Very fragrant and sweet-smelling
Blooming: Can occur several times a year, often in spring and summer
Structure: 4–5 petals, with many stamens; can be solitary or in clusters
🍋 Fruit
Shape: Oval or elliptical
Size: 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) in length
Color: Bright yellow when ripe
Rind: Thick, textured, and aromatic; contains essential oils
Flesh: Juicy, pale yellow, divided into 8–10 segments
Flavor: Tart and acidic, rich in vitamin C
Seeds: Present in most varieties, though some are seedless
🌞 Growing Conditions
Climate: Prefers subtropical to tropical climates
Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily)
Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0)
Watering: Regular but not waterlogged; deep watering preferred
Temperature: Sensitive to frost; ideal range is 70–85°F (21–29°C)
🏡 Common Uses
Culinary: juice, zest, and preservation
Ornamental: fragrant flowers and attractive foliage
Medicinal: vitamin C source, digestive aid
Container gardening: dwarf varieties suit patios and indoor settings