The Eureka lemon tree is a small, virtually thorn-less tree that grows vigorously with an open and spreading form. The Eureka lemons have greenish-yellow flesh color (the variegated varieties flesh color is pink) that is tender, juicy, fine-grained, and has a highly acidic flavor.
The Eureka Lemon tree is a drought-tolerant and cold hardy evergreen citrus tree that does well in tropical to subtropical climates and is adaptable to different well-draining soil types and conditions. This lemon lime tree is best grown outdoors in USDA growing zones 8 through 11 and must be protected when temperatures are forecasted to drop below 32F. The Eureka lemon tree can be grown in USDA growing zones 4 to 7 in a pot but should be moved indoors during colder weather when there is any danger of frost or strong winds that may harm the fruit tree.
Eureka lemon trees originated from a group of seedlings grown from a fruit of Italian origin in Los Angeles, California that is thought to have been planted in 1858. A few years later, Andrew Boyle and C.R. Workman got their hands on some of the seedlings and selected those that seemed most promising. In 1877 Workman gave a bud from one of the seedlings to a prominent nurseryman from Los Angeles, who propagated and introduced it as Garey’s Eureka (Butterfield, 1963).
The Eureka lemon tree is a small, virtually thornless tree that grows vigorously with an open and spreading form. It can grow up to 15 ft in height but can be kept at a desired height through prudent pinching and pruning. These lemon lime trees are ever-bearing and produce medium to small fruit that are mostly elliptical to oblong in shape, with a medium-thick yellow rind. The Eureka lemons have greenish-yellow flesh color (the variegated variety’s flesh color is pink) that is tender, juicy, fine-grained, and has a highly acidic flavor.
My Eureka lemon tree arrived in great shape and a few days earlier than expected. It is healthy looking and growing really fast. Very happy with my purchase.
I was skeptical about having a plant shipped but it was very well packaged and arrived alive and unharmed by its journey. Its so pretty it almost looks like a fake plant. I did repot it within the first couple of week after receiving it
So far so good
The Eureka Lemon Tree is a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners due to its minimal care requirements and prolific fruit production. Thriving in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11, this citrus tree can also be planted in pots and moved indoors in colder climates (zones 4 through 7) when temperatures drop below freezing.
Ideal Growing Conditions: To ensure your Eureka Lemon Tree flourishes, plant it in a sunny location which will help maximize fruit yield. The tree benefits from soil that drains well, making raised beds or containers excellent choices for planting. Protect young trees from sunburn by wrapping the trunk with paper bark wrap or painting it with a protective coating. During colder months, safeguard your tree from frost and cold winds by bringing potted trees indoors or providing a heat source.
Watering and Nutrition: Water your Eureka Lemon Tree thoroughly twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In hot, dry conditions, more frequent watering may be necessary. As the tree matures, reduce watering to every 7-14 days, depending on local weather conditions. Feed your tree with a nitrogen and potassium-rich citrus fertilizer three times a year—in January, April, and July. Apply a slow-release fertilizer such as a 3:1:5 or 8:1:5 formula around the drip line, avoiding direct contact with the trunk.
Pruning and Maintenance: Pruning should occur after fruit harvest or at the onset of new spring growth. Remove any damaged or diseased branches, and clear suckers from the rootstock to maintain health and maximize fruit production. Pruning the lower branches encourages the development of a strong, single trunk, while cutting back the central stem and tips of the main branches can promote a fuller, more robust canopy.
Pest Management: Regularly wash the tree with a strong spray of water to prevent pest infestations. Treat any outbreaks of mites, snails, aphids, or scales with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. For specific pests like citrus psylla, use targeted treatments recommended by local garden experts.
The Eureka Lemon Tree is celebrated for producing vibrant, large lemons with a uniquely rounded shape and a pronounced tip. These lemons are encased in a bright yellow, thick rind dotted with aromatic oil glands. The acidic punch of Eureka lemons makes them a favorite for culinary enthusiasts, ideal for a range of dishes and drinks. Whether squeezed into lemonades, mixed into cocktails, or zested over dishes, these lemons add a burst of freshness. They’re also perfect for creating homemade lemon curd, marmalades, and sumptuous lemon meringue pies. Under room conditions, they stay fresh for about a week and can last up to a month when refrigerated.
Harvesting
Eureka Lemon Trees start to fruit within 2-3 years of planting, as they establish a strong root system and sufficient foliage to support their growth. They yield fruit all year round, with a heavy bloom in spring and fruit maturation by winter. Harvesting should occur when the lemons are glossy, firm, and about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Always taste-test for the right balance of sweetness and acidity before picking more. To harvest, either snip with pruning shears or gently twist the fruit by hand until it separates from the branch. Avoid letting lemons overripen on the tree, as they will lose moisture and flavor.
Eureka Lemon Trees reach a height of 10 to 15 feet when planted in the ground, but when grown in pots, they typically stay between 3 to 5 feet, making them perfect as attractive houseplants. For the best growth, use a large container with excellent drainage and choose a slightly acidic, well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. These trees thrive in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F and should be moved indoors or protected when temperatures approach the freezing point of 32°F.
Pest and Disease Management
While Eureka Lemon Trees are relatively easy to grow, they can be susceptible to common citrus pests such as scales, aphids, mites, and leafminers. A natural approach to pest control is companion planting; for example, nasturtiums can divert aphids, while lavender and marigolds deter pests with their strong aromas. For more direct control, introduce beneficial insects or apply horticultural or neem oil for minor infestations. In cases of significant pest activity, appropriate insecticides may be necessary.
Be vigilant against diseases like citrus canker, greasy spot fungus, and other fungal infections like Phytophthora, Botrytis, and Anthracnose. Citrus canker causes severe lesions and requires the tree to be destroyed if infected. Preventative measures include spraying liquid copper fungicide, especially during the warmer months, to manage and prevent fungal diseases. Regular treatment schedules can help maintain the health and productivity of your lemon tree.
It is best to not prune a newly planted tree for the first year. After one year of growth, you can prune branches to remove them from paths or structures, and to maintain the tree at the desired height. Also prune away dead or damaged branches. Finally, if low suckers appear (that is sprouts growing from the base of the trunk) be sure to prune them entirely away.
Can the Eureka Lemon Tree live through a short freeze in winter?
Some brief periods of frost will not kill or permanently damage a full grown Eureka Lemon Tree. Temperatures at or below freezing that persist for more than three or four hours are likely to kill back foliage, fruit, and may damage mature trees. Any sustained freezing temperatures that endure for more than four hours are likely to severely damage or kill most citrus trees, including Eureka Lemon Trees.
Do lemon trees require full sun?
Lemon trees thrive in warm, sunny locations. They will grow in partial shade or areas that get a few hours of direct sunlight per day. As a general rule, the more sun the better.
When should I pick my lemons?
Lemons are ripe when they turn yellow or yellow green. The best way to know when to pick the fruit is to do a taste test.
Donna Ice (verified owner) –
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Kevin Szczepankowski (verified owner) –
Tree arrived and in good shape.
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LARRY DOWDELL (verified owner) –
Delivered as promised.
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Becky (verified owner) –
My Eureka lemon tree arrived in great shape and a few days earlier than expected. It is healthy looking and growing really fast. Very happy with my purchase.
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Betty (verified owner) –
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Dusty (verified owner) –
I was skeptical about having a plant shipped but it was very well packaged and arrived alive and unharmed by its journey. Its so pretty it almost looks like a fake plant. I did repot it within the first couple of week after receiving it
So far so good
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Nancy N. (verified owner) –
Beautiful trees! The foliage was very lush. The person I got them for was thrilled to get such beautiful plants.
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Anonymous (verified owner) –
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william vaughn (verified owner) –
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Janice Kizziar (verified owner) –
It was a gift for my son-in-law and daughter. They loved it, they said it was three feet tall.
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John D (verified owner) –
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Albert L. (verified owner) –
Quick delivery
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Citrus Customer Care (store manager) –
Thank you for your positive review. Please enjoy your tree.
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Pamela M Luiz (verified owner) –
Beautiful, tall and green already out new growth.
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Pamela M Luiz (verified owner) –
It came in over a foot tall and very healthy. Beautiful plant.
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Citrus Customer Care (store manager) –
We are happy that your tree is thriving, and we appreciate your business. Thanks for the review.
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Kenneth Bretzer (verified owner) –
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Citrus Customer Care (store manager) –
Thank you for the 5-stars! We hope you enjoy your tree, and we appreciate your business.
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Kathleen W. (verified owner) –
The tree arrived in a timely fashion and in great condition! It has a couple of blooms and 2 lemons just starting. Love it!!
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Sue A. (verified owner) –
I’m absolutely in love with my lemon tree, and it already has three lemons growing.
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Ted Barss (verified owner) –
Everything came as advertised. I received a very healthy lemon tree as promised
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Anonymous (verified owner) –
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