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heirloom lemon tree

Looking for an heirloom lemon tree to bring old-fashioned flavour and fragrance to your New Zealand garden? Heirloom lemon trees are prized for their robust growth, generous fruiting, and classic citrus taste, making them the perfect choice for gardeners who value tradition and quality. Whether you’re keen to grow lemons for baking, preserve historic varieties, or simply enjoy aromatic blossoms right by your patio, an heirloom lemon tree will satisfy both the green-fingered and gourmet among us. With their distinctive fruit and heritage value, these trees add lasting charm and bounty to any outdoor space.

Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.

Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

5 from 2 customers

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as Tarata or Lemonwood, is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree valued for its glossy green leaves and lemon-scented foliage. It can reach 10 metres tall and makes an excellent shelter tree or native hedge. In spring, it produces clusters of small, yellowish flowers that are attractive to insects.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 5.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Riparian
'Meyer' Lemon yellow fruit.

Lemon 'Meyer'

5 from 1 customers

The 'Meyer' Lemon is a much-loved citrus variety known for its sweeter, less acidic flavour compared to standard lemons. The thin-skinned fruit is highly juicy and perfect for cooking, baking, drinks, and preserves.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Citrus
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Screening
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern
Yellow 'Yen Ben' Lemons.
Lemon 'Yen Ben'

The 'Yen Ben' Lemon is a high-quality lemon variety prized for its smooth skin, abundant juice, and tangy flavour. Popular with chefs and home cooks...

From$29.95
Yellow 'Lemonade' Lemon fruit on a tree.
Lemon 'Lemonade'

The 'Lemonade' Lemon is a unique citrus variety producing sweet, refreshing fruit that can be eaten straight from the tree. Its flavour is...

From$329.95
Thymus citriodorus 'Aurea' with fantastic yellow foliage growing over a wall.
Thymus citriodorus 'Aurea' (Citrus Thyme)

Thymus citriodorus 'Aurea' is a beautiful golden leaved form of Lemon Thyme valued for its fragrant foliage, culinary uses, and ornamental appeal...

From$11.95
A Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lemon' plant in a garden.
Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lemon'

Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lemon' is an evergreen shrub often used instead of Buxus for hedges. It carries dense, upright branches that host small and...

From$16.95
Nandina 'Lemon And Lime' plant in a garden with lush foliage.
Nandina 'Lemon and Lime'

The 'Lemon and Lime' Nandina is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant lime-green foliage that adds year-round colour to New Zealand...

From$22.95
Callistemon citrinus (Red Bottlebrush) shrub covered in elegant, red flowers.
Callistemon citrinus (Lemon Scented Bottlebrush)

Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush) is a classic Australian shrub widely loved in New Zealand for its brilliant crimson red flower spikes and...

From$27.53
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
An elegant Dietes 'Lemon Drops' flower.
Dietes 'Lemon Drops'

Dietes 'Lemon Drops' is a variety of Iris that produces exquisite white flowers that have three distinct, yellow spots. These are made on slender...

From$17.87
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata', also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
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Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through...

From$270.40
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Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
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Tree Fertiliser

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

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Fruit Tree Fertiliser

Fruit Tree Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth, strong root development, and productive fruiting in a wide range of fruit...

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Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$5.00
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Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
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Palm Tree Fertiliser

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
'Villa Franca' yellow lemons on a tree.
Lemon 'Villa Franca'

The ''Villa Franca' Lemon is a highly productive citrus variety known for its smooth, thin-skinned fruit with juicy, acidic flesh perfect for...

OUT OF STOCK
A large 'Ponderosa' Lemon yellow fruit.
Lemon 'Ponderosa'

The 'Ponderosa' Lemon is a remarkable citrus variety known for producing exceptionally large lemons, often weighing over a kilogram each. The fruit...

OUT OF STOCK
'Eureka' Lemon fruit on a tree.
Lemon 'Eureka'

The 'Eureka' Lemon is a popular citrus variety known for its prolific fruiting and high-quality lemons. The fruit has a thin, smooth skin, abundant...

OUT OF STOCK
A 'Genoa' Lemon Tree bearing yellow fruit growing in a pot.
Lemon 'Genoa'

The 'Genoa' Lemon is a vigorous, heavy-cropping variety producing juicy, tangy lemons with a smooth yellow skin. Known for its reliable fruiting, it...

OUT OF STOCK
Illicium Lemon Sorbet plant with yellow flowers.
Illicium 'Lemon Sorbet'

Illicium 'Lemon Sorbet', commonly known as the Yellow Anise Tree, is a compact, evergreen shrub grown for its foliage and flowers. The lush, deep...

OUT OF STOCK
Gazania 'Lemon Tart' yellow flowers above olive-green foliage.
Gazania 'Lemon Tart'

Gazania 'Lemon Tart' is a dazzling, sun-loving perennial that produces vivid lemon-yellow blooms accented with a bold central ring. These cheerful...

OUT OF STOCK
Kniphofia 'Lemon Fizz' yellow flowers.
Kniphofia 'Lemon Fizz'

Kniphofia 'Lemon Fizz' is a lively perennial known for its vivid lemon-yellow flower spikes that bring fresh, cheerful colour to any New Zealand...

OUT OF STOCK
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Callistemon, Lemon, and Lonicera, or related Categories - Lemon Trees, Herbs, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search heirloom lemon tree

Why Choose an Heirloom Lemon Tree?

Heirloom lemon trees stand apart from modern hybrids thanks to their rich history and unique attributes. Their fruit typically boasts thicker skin, aromatic oils, and intense flavour that’s perfect for homemade marmalade, lemon curd, or zesting into dishes. These trees grow well in New Zealand’s mild climates, attracting pollinators and providing beautiful evergreen foliage year-round. Unlike mass-market citrus, heirloom varieties often have excellent disease resistance and distinctive characteristics passed down generation after generation. If you value provenance and full-bodied, authentic lemon flavour, planting an heirloom lemon tree is a rewarding choice.

Popular Varieties for Kiwi Gardens

Among heirloom lemon trees, certain cultivars have proven especially popular with New Zealand gardeners. One standout is the Lemon 'Ponderosa'—renowned for its enormous fruit, thick skin, and memorable taste. The Ponderosa combines vigor with a rustic heritage, making it ideal for home orchards and kitchen gardens keen on producing lemons with a difference.

If you’d like to explore other options, consider the classic Lemon 'Eureka' variety. While Eureka is not strictly an heirloom, it’s celebrated for its prolific fruiting and reliable performance, helping you enjoy fresh lemons almost year-round. Another delightful cultivar is the Lemon 'Lemonade', valued for its mild, sweet flavour—perfect for juicing or eating straight from the tree.

How to Grow and Care for Heirloom Lemon Trees

Cultivating an heirloom lemon tree in New Zealand is straightforward once you understand its needs. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-draining soil. Regular watering and feeding keep the tree healthy, while annual pruning helps maintain shape and encourages fruiting. Mulching around the base conserves moisture and protects roots. Heirloom lemon trees appreciate organic fertilizer, making them a good match for gardeners interested in sustainable practices.

Companion planting can boost your tree’s health and enhance your garden’s biodiversity. For example, try growing Crassula ovata (Money Tree) nearby to add structural interest and a touch of luck. Incorporating native trees, such as Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata), helps support local wildlife and provides shelter for your citrus.

Discover Authentic Heirloom Citrus

If you’re ready to add a genuine heirloom lemon tree to your garden and discover the flavours cooked with by generations before, explore our range of citrus. Whether you’re after the robust Lemon 'Ponderosa' or other trusted lemon varieties, we’ll help you grow something special. Enjoy the beauty, fragrance, and harvest of your own lemon tree—and share its legacy with your family, friends, and community.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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