Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

lemon tree in pot nz

If you’ve ever dreamed of picking homegrown citrus but are short on space, growing a lemon tree in pot in NZ is your answer. Whether you have a balcony, small backyard, or simply want a beautiful, productive plant by your kitchen door, container-grown lemons thrive in New Zealand’s climate and add a sunny zest to any garden. Choosing the right variety and following a few simple tips can ensure you’re harvesting juicy lemons for years to come—no matter where you live.

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.

From $15.04

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 12.00 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, Coastal, Formal, Native, Riparian
Yellow 'Yen Ben' Lemons.

Lemon 'Yen Ben'

5 from 1 customers

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.

From $29.95

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 '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
'Meyer' Lemon yellow fruit.
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...

From$29.95
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
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' tree in a garden.
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon'

Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' is a standout Japanese maple admired for its glowing apricot and orange toned foliage that brings warmth and vibrancy...

From$299.95
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
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
5-litre-plant-pots-
5 Litre Plant Pots

5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing larger shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and young trees. They provide generous root space to...

From$79.20
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) tree with lush foliage and white flowers growing in a coastal location.
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio, is a NZ native tree grown for its lush foliage and showy flowers. It features large, fleshy, green leaves...

From$28.91
Acer 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' specimen tree with lush, green foliage.
Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa'

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' is a sought-after dwarf Japanese Maple prized for its dense, layered foliage and elegant form. Its small...

From$299.95
15-litre-plant-pots-
1.5 Litre Plant Pots

1.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide useful...

From$27.36
potting-media-
Potting Media

Potting Media is a quality growing mix designed to provide plants with the support, drainage, aeration, and moisture retention needed for healthy...

From$29.75
plant-pots-
2.5 Litre Plant Pots

2.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical option for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide ample root...

From$37.44
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 Litre Plant Pots

3.5 Litre Plant Pots are a versatile choice for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other established plants. They provide generous root...

From$48.96
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
pb-three-quarter-planter-bags-
Planter Bags 3/4 (Seedling Bags)

PB 3/4 Planter Bags are a practical option for growing and establishing small plants, seedlings, shrubs, and young trees. Made for nursery and...

From$15.47
10-litre-plant-pots-
10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$5.76
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
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
half-litre-plant-pots-
0.5 Litre Plant Pots

0.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young plants, herbs, seedlings, and smaller ornamentals. Their compact size makes them ideal...

From$23.04
pb-60-planter-bags-
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
pb-28-planter-bags-
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
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
ulmus-lobel-
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
fruiting-plant-fertiliser-
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...

From$16.95
A Meryta sinclairii (Puka) specimen tree.
Meryta sinclairii

Meryta sinclairii, commonly known as the Puka Tree or Puka Plant, is a NZ native shrub with a lush and tropical appearance. It bears large and...

From$387.55
Tabebuia rosea tree with masses of pink flowers.
Tabebuia rosea (Pink Poui)

Tabebuia rosea is a spectacular flowering tree admired for its masses of soft pink trumpet shaped blooms that appear before the foliage in spring...

From$65.55
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser

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

From$16.95
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
Libertia grandiflora plant with elegant white flowers and lush, dark green foliage.
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as NZ Iris, is a hardy New Zealand native perennial admired for its elegant white flowers and sword like green...

From$16.50
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
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Callistemon, and Lemon, or related Categories - Plant pots, Lemon Trees, and Herbs.

Search lemon tree in pot nz

Why Grow a Lemon Tree in a Pot in NZ?

Growing a lemon tree in pot in NZ offers flexibility and convenience. The moveable pot lets you catch the best sun, protect your tree from harsh winds, or bring it under cover during unpredictable winter frosts. Container-grown lemons are easier to care for, and your favourite lemon can even come with you if you move house. Plus, the glossy foliage and fragrant blossoms make an eye-catching and aromatic patio feature.

Best Lemon Varieties for Pots

Not all lemon trees are created equal, and some adapt to container life better than others. The ever-popular Lemon 'Ponderosa' is renowned for its huge, juicy fruit and compact size, making it ideal for pots. Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon) combines two exceptional varieties on one tree—Meyer for sweet, thin-skinned lemons and Yen Ben for classic tartness—so you’ll have lemons almost year-round. If you prefer a true lemon flavour, consider Lemon 'Yen Ben', prized for its plentiful crops and strong tang, perfect for that morning tea or baked treat.

How to Plant and Care for Your Lemon Tree in a Pot

To grow a successful lemon tree in pot in NZ, start with a large container—at least 40cm wide—with good drainage. Use a premium citrus mix or free-draining potting soil and place your tree in a spot receiving at least six hours of sun each day. Water deeply when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry, and feed fortnightly in spring and summer with a citrus fertiliser. In winter, reduce watering and watch for frosty nights; pots can be moved to a sheltered spot or temporarily indoors.

Pruning is simple—just remove any dead or crossing branches and shape as necessary to maintain a bushy, compact form. Keep an eye out for pests like scale or aphids, which are more common in pots than in open ground.

Designing Your Space with Potted Citrus

A lemon tree in pot transforms patios, courtyards, or decks into productive retreats. For a bright, cohesive look, pair with other evergreen foliage like Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata) or brighten things up with a splash of colour using Coprosma 'Lemon and Lime'. Both options complement the glossy green of lemon trees and grow well in containers, making them perfect companions for your potted citrus collection.

Start Growing Citrus Anywhere

Growing a lemon tree in pot in NZ is accessible for everyone. With a selection of hardy, container-friendly varieties and straightforward care, you’ll enjoy fragrant blooms and fresh lemons even in the smallest spaces. Whether you opt for Lemon 'Ponderosa', Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon), or Lemon 'Yen Ben', potted lemon trees promise an endless supply of zest and style for your Kiwi home.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Chamaemelum nobile (Chamomile) and Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily) are popular for a reason, but it’s plants like Echeveria secunda, Camellia 'Little Liane', and Cherry 'Dawson' that create a truly unique garden.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

466 Google reviews