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Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
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lemon tree varieties nz

If you’re searching for lemon tree varieties NZ, you’re in the right place. New Zealand’s climate is perfect for growing lemons, and today’s gardeners are spoiled for choice with vigorous, reliable, and delicious cultivars. Whether you garden in Auckland’s subtropical warmth or further south in the cooler regions, there’s a lemon tree variety suited to your backyard, patio, or orchard. Let’s explore the most popular lemon tree varieties NZ and help you select the best lemon trees for your garden, whether you’re after abundant fruit, resilient trees, or unique flavour profiles.

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 reminiscent of lemonade without the added sugar, making it a healthy and delicious treat. The medium-sized fruit has smooth yellow skin and juicy flesh, perfect for juicing, salads, or fresh snacking. The tree is hardy, evergreen, and productive, offering both ornamental beauty and a generous harvest in most NZ gardens.

Buy Lemon 'Lemonade'

From $270.40

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Citrus

Height: 2.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Pool areas

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 $46.85

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

Popular Lemon Tree Varieties NZ

New Zealand gardeners have access to a fantastic range of lemon tree varieties. Each offers its own strengths — from prolific cropping to compact growth and exceptional flavour.

Lemon 'Yen Ben'

The Lemon 'Yen Ben' is a favourite among Kiwi citrus enthusiasts. This variety is known for its high juice content, thin skin, and reliable year-round fruiting. ‘Yen Ben’ lemons are ideal for culinary use, making them perfect for squeezing over seafood, adding to baking, or preserving.

Lemon 'Eureka'

If you want continuous crops and robust growth, Lemon 'Eureka' is an excellent choice. This classic lemon tree variety thrives in most New Zealand regions, offering larger fruit with minimal seed. Its vigorous, upright habit makes it a good option for home orchards seeking consistent supply throughout the year.

Lemon 'Lemonade'

For something a bit different, try the Lemon 'Lemonade'. This unique hybrid is popular for its sweet, low-acid fruit that can be eaten fresh straight off the tree—just like an apple. It’s a wonderful conversation starter and a hit with families wanting a less tangy lemon.

Double Grafted Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben

If you’re short on space but crave variety, the Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon) offers two favourite varieties on one tree. Meyer delivers fragrant, juicy fruit with a mild flavour, while Yen Ben provides classic tart lemons for cooking—both growing harmoniously from a single rootstock.

Lemon 'Genoa'

Another top performer is the Lemon 'Genoa'. ‘Genoa’ produces a heavy crop of medium-sized fruit with juicy, tangy flesh and thinner skins. Its compact stature makes it especially suitable for smaller gardens or as a container specimen.

Choosing The Right Lemon Tree For Your Garden

When deciding which lemon tree varieties NZ suits your space, consider your climate and desired use. Coastal and northern regions with minimal frost are ideal for most varieties, though sheltered positions and greenhouse growing allow success in cooler areas. For patio gardening, look for compact growers like ‘Genoa’ or double grafted trees. Culinary enthusiasts may appreciate ‘Yen Ben’ or ‘Eureka’ for their reliable, tangy fruit.

Planting and Caring for Lemon Trees in NZ

All lemon tree varieties NZ benefit from sunny positions with good drainage and regular feeding. Mulch around the base to preserve moisture and protect roots. Annual pruning keeps trees healthy and productive, while consistent watering ensures juicy, abundant harvests.

Explore NZ’s Lemon Tree Range

From high-yielding classics to innovative hybrids, the choice of lemon tree varieties NZ is more exciting than ever. Browse our selection and discover the perfect lemon trees for your garden—start your citrus journey with confidence and enjoy home-grown lemons year-round.

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.

lemon tree varieties nz

Lemon 'Lemonade'

Lemon 'Yen Ben'

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