Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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how much does a lemon tree cost

Are you dreaming of harvesting fresh lemons right from your backyard but wondering, "how much does a lemon tree cost"? You're not alone! Lemon trees are one of New Zealand's favourite citrus options, appealing to home gardeners and orchardists alike for their lush foliage, fragrant blossoms, and zesty fruit. Whether you’re seeking an affordable starter specimen or splurging on a larger, fruit-bearing tree, several factors—such as tree variety, size, and age—influence lemon tree prices. Below, we’ll break down what you can expect to pay, explore different lemon types available, and highlight some useful tips for choosing the perfect citrus companion for your garden.

Lemon 'Meyer'

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. This compact evergreen tree has glossy green foliage, fragrant blossoms, and produces prolifically, often fruiting year-round in warmer areas. Hardy and easy to grow in most NZ climates, ‘Meyer’ Lemon is ideal for both gardens and containers, bringing beauty and productivity to any outdoor space.

Buy Lemon 'Meyer'

From $43.13

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

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 alike, it is ideal for cooking, drinks, preserves, and garnishes. The tree is vigorous, evergreen, and highly productive, with fragrant white blossoms in spring adding ornamental value. Suited to both home gardens and commercial production, ‘Yen Ben’ Lemon thrives in most NZ climates, delivering heavy crops of premium-quality fruit.

Buy Lemon 'Yen Ben'

From $43.13

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

What Influences the Cost of a Lemon Tree?

When asking, "how much does a lemon tree cost," it’s important to understand that prices can vary depending on the variety, plant size, and presentation (bare-root, potted, or grafted). Seedlings and young, potted trees are the most affordable options, making them ideal for beginner gardeners. More established or grafted lemon trees typically cost more, as they’re closer to fruit-bearing maturity and often boast robust health.

Typical Price Range for Lemon Trees in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the cost of a lemon tree generally ranges from $30 to $120 or more. Here's a basic breakdown:

Small or young lemon trees (20–40cm tall): Expect prices from $30 to $45.
Medium-sized, well-established trees (40–80cm): These often cost $50 to $70.
Large, mature lemon trees (over 80cm), including those ready to fruit: These can run from $80 to $120+, especially if they’re grafted or double-grafted.

This price range applies to popular types like Lemon 'Yen Ben', Lemon 'Meyer', and Lemon 'Ponderosa'. Premium options such as the Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon) typically sit at the higher end, thanks to their enhanced productivity and resilience.

Which Lemon Tree Variety Should You Choose?

The variety you select impacts not just the price, but also the fruiting time, flavour, and care requirements:

Lemon 'Meyer': Known for sweet, juicy fruit and its compact form—perfect for patio gardening and smaller spaces.
Lemon 'Yen Ben': A classic, vigorous lemon with high yields and a sharp flavour, suitable for all culinary uses.
Lemon 'Ponderosa': Offers spectacularly large fruit and lush foliage—great for statement planting.
Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon): Ideal for gardeners wanting fruit nearly year-round and the best of both worlds.

Be sure to consider your personal taste, space, and budget when selecting a lemon tree.

Lemon Tree Cost vs. Other Indoor Plants

If you’re comparing citrus pricing to other popular houseplants, such as succulents or Crassula ovata (Money Tree), you’ll find lemon trees are a moderate investment for long-term reward. While a lemon tree costs more up front, its harvests last for years—making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardening.

Final Tips for Buying a Lemon Tree

When searching “how much does a lemon tree cost,” remember to factor in environmental conditions, care needs, and growth potential. Always purchase from reputable nurseries to ensure healthy, productive plants. Whether you’re looking for the classic Lemon 'Meyer' or a double-grafted showstopper, investing in a quality lemon tree pays off in beauty and flavour for seasons to come.

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.