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lemon tree new zealand

A thriving lemon tree is a classic feature in New Zealand backyards, loved for its bountiful fruit, zesty fragrance, and lush evergreen foliage. Whether you're a keen gardener in Auckland, a beginner in Wellington, or dreaming of citrus on the South Island, growing a lemon tree in New Zealand is both rewarding and achievable. The country's temperate climate is ideal for cultivating a variety of lemon trees, bringing a slice of the Mediterranean right to your garden.

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: 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.

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$229.95
'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
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
iris-maui-moonlight-1
Iris Maui Moonlight

“Maui Moonlight” is a colourful variety of Bearded Iris that features stunning, lemon-yellow flowers. The showy blooms are borne on sturdy stems from...

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
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
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
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
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
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
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree 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$13.40
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
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
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
fruiting-plant-fertiliser-
Fruit Tree Fertiliser (Fruit Tree Fertiliser)

Fruiting plants respond well to fruit tree fertiliser with better quality produce, higher yields, and a much healthier and brighter looking plant...

From$13.40
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
Tree Guards (Tree Guards)

Our tree guards and plant shelters are bio-degradable products that are perfect for using in riparian areas and other exposed positions. They are...

From$5.00
jute-tree-tie-1
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
aloe-barberae-
Aloidendron barberae (Tree Aloe)

Commonly known as Tree Aloe, this is a large variety of Aloe that can reach 15 m tall and 3 m wide. This impressive tree forms a rounded crown of...

From$57.89
cloth-tree-tie-
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
palm-tree-fertiliser-1
Palm Tree Fertiliser (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$13.40
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
'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
'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
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
A double grafted lemon tree with Meyer and Yen Ben fruit.
Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon)

This double-grafted lemon tree offers a longer fruiting season and fruit from two popular varieties on the same plant. It typically grows to 2.5 m in...

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
Correa Lemon Twist plant with yellow flowers.
Correa 'Lemon Twist'

Correa 'Lemon Twist' is a hardy shrub grown for its foliage and flowers. The foliage is made up dark green leaves held densely, and these become...

OUT OF STOCK
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Callistemon, Dacrydium, and Dietes, or related Categories - Lemon Trees, Perennials, and Iris Plants.

Search lemon tree

Why Plant a Lemon Tree in New Zealand?

Lemon trees are highly valued in New Zealand gardens for their versatility, productivity, and year-round appeal. They not only provide a reliable harvest of vitamin-rich lemons but also serve as an attractive feature with glossy green leaves and fragrant spring blossoms. Lemons are a staple in the Kiwi kitchen, perfect for drinks, cooking, and homemade preserves.

Best Lemon Tree Varieties for New Zealand Gardens

For gardeners searching for the right lemon tree New Zealand has some excellent varieties to suit every region and situation. The popular Lemon 'Meyer' is a favourite for its sweet flavour, compact growth habit, and reliable cropping, making it one of the most widely planted varieties in home gardens. If you love classic, tangy lemons, Lemon 'Yen Ben' offers a true lemon taste and is known for its juicy fruit and plentiful harvests. For something unique, Lemon 'Lemonade' produces a milder, sweeter fruit that's fantastic for eating fresh off the tree.

Growing and Caring for Lemon Trees

Success with a lemon tree in New Zealand starts with choosing a sunny, sheltered spot in free-draining soil. Lemon trees thrive with around 6-8 hours of sun a day and appreciate extra warmth, so plant them against a north-facing wall where possible. Consistent watering, mulching, and a good citrus fertiliser will keep your tree healthy and productive.

Protecting your lemon tree in New Zealand from frost, especially in the southern regions, is essential. Young trees can be protected with frost cloth or by growing them in pots that can be moved under cover. Regularly check for pests such as scale or aphids, and prune to encourage air flow and fruiting.

Companion Plants and Landscaping Ideas

A lemon tree New Zealand garden can be enhanced with the right companions. Underplant aromatic herbs like thyme or lavender to attract pollinators. For a striking foliage contrast, plant natives like Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata), or try colourful evergreens such as Coprosma 'Lemon and Lime'.

Start Your Lemon Tree Journey Today

With the right care, a lemon tree in New Zealand will reward you with years of flavour, fragrance, and beauty. Explore our selection and discover the perfect Lemon 'Meyer', Lemon 'Yen Ben', or Lemon 'Lemonade' for your garden. Your slice of homegrown citrus paradise awaits.


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.

You’ve probably heard of our garden favourites like Gardenia 'Veitchii' and Alcantarea imperialis 'Rubra', but did you know we also grow hidden gems like Cornus Cherokee Chief, Carex testacea, and Geum 'Can Can'?
–The Plant Company

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