Species

Citrus limonLemon

4 other cultivars

tree

Genoa lemon

Citrus limon 'Genoa'

The Story

Plant Bio

Citrus limon is an evergreen subtropical tree native to Asia, characterized by its glossy green foliage, fragrant white blossoms, and acidic yellow fruit. The species thrives in frost-free climates with well-draining, nutrient-rich soils and requires consistent moisture to sustain fruit production.

'Genoa' is a cold-hardy, nearly thornless cultivar that develops a dense, spreading canopy that is noticeably wider and more compact than 'Eureka' or 'Lisbon'. It produces highly fragrant white flowers with purplish-pink buds, followed by thin-skinned, high-acid lemons borne primarily on the outer perimeter of the foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Dense, glossy evergreen foliage and highly fragrant white flowers provide year-round visual appeal.

Produces abundant, high-acid, thin-skinned lemons suitable for culinary use, juice, and zest.

Fragrant blossoms attract native bees, honeybees, and other insect pollinators to the garden.

SpeciesCitrus limonLemon

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

96"

Width

120"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

50 years

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Autumn

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun receiving at least six to eight hours of direct daily sunlight.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but slightly shallower, ensuring the root flare remains visible above the surrounding soil grade.
Backfill with native soil amended with organic matter, avoiding heavy clay that retains excess water.
Water deeply immediately after planting, then establish a regular watering cycle that allows the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings.
Apply a specialized high-nitrogen citrus fertilizer three to four times during the active growing season.

Pro Tip

Plant the tree slightly high with the root flare exposed to prevent cambium suffocation and Phytophthora collar rot. Avoid planting in unsheltered, windy locations, as wind-rub easily scars the fruit developing on the outer canopy.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Expose the root flare during planting to prevent bark rot.
Water deeply and regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between cycles.
Apply a balanced citrus fertilizer containing nitrogen, iron, and trace elements.
Provide heavy winter protection or move container-grown trees indoors if temperatures drop below 25°F.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, poorly draining clay soils or low spots prone to standing water.
Do not prune heavily into old, leafless wood, as regeneration is slow and patchy.
Do not allow mulch to touch the trunk, which invites fungal collar rot.
Do not plant in high-wind zones where outer canopy fruit will suffer wind-scarring.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Edible LandscapeSpecimen TreeContainer PlantingEspalierPrivacy Screen

Companion Plants

Rosmarinus officinalis Lavandula angustifolia Origanum vulgare Tagetes patula

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Genoa lemon questions

What zones can Genoa lemon grow in?

Genoa lemon is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Genoa lemon deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Genoa lemon, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Genoa lemon bloom?

Genoa lemon typically blooms in spring through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Genoa lemon need full sun?

Genoa lemon does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Genoa lemon drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Genoa lemon handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.