The Meyer Lemon Tree: if you haven’t heard of this of-the-moment tree, you’ve come to the perfect place. This powerful little tree is elegant, easy-care and efficient – it produces a ton of tasty, sweet lemons. Learn more about this must-have cultivar!
Brief History of the Meyer Lemon Tree
For starters, the Meyer Lemon Tree was brought to the United States in 1908. Frank Nicholas Meyer was an agricultural explorer for the United States Department of Agriculture. He discovered a true lemon tree and an orange or mandarin tree hybrid on a trip to China and brought a sample back. The new citrus tree that resulted was soon named in his honor.
The Meyer Lemon Tree was commonly grown in pots in China and used as an ornamental tree. The easy-to-grow hybrid took off in the United States, partially due to its ability to grow lemons throughout the year. Also, it’s adaptable and cold hardy because it can even withstand the cold temperatures in zone 8! Plus, Meyer Lemons do well potted indoors for those who live above zone 8 or for those who desire a decorative tree in their home or on their patio.
A Few Facts
First of all, lemons are a dark green color while they’re small, before their skin matures. Lemons actually stay green for months before they ripen and turn yellow.
Also, since they’re hybrids, Meyer Lemons have a more rounded shape than other lemons, and their skin has a slight orange tint. Plus, the skin is thinner than the skin of other lemons. The skin is so thin on Meyer Lemons that you can eat them without peeling!
Best of all, this tree smells great. The blooms put off a lovely sweet citrus smell. You’ll love keeping it indoors because it will naturally make your home smell fresh and clean.
And for years, the Meyer Lemon Tree flew under the radar until its sweet flavor was discovered and put into recipes. Also, with naturally sweeter lemons, less sugar is required in recipes.
Watch out for the thorns, though! Many different types of citrus trees have thorns, including the Meyer Lemon Tree. Thankfully, the thorns on a Meyer lemon are small and soft.
Lemon Benefits
Meyer Lemons are packed with vitamin C. If you begin to feel ill, grab a Meyer Lemon right off the branch for a nutritious, immune-boosting snack. Flu season is approaching, and some suggest placing a lemon slice in your water or warm morning beverages. This may help you battle cold and flu symptoms before they strike. Lemons also contain calcium, potassium and magnesium. These are great nutrients that can easily be added to your diet with a couple of squeezes.
Many antioxidants are found in lemons, which are always great to have. Antioxidants support eye health, skin health, immune health and more! And we can’t forget about fiber. The Meyer Lemon, especially the edible peel, is high in fiber. Studies suggest that a lemon slice in warm water in the morning can relieve constipation. Plus, the soluble fiber found in lemons can help people feel fuller, longer.
My Oh Mey-er Lemons
Plant a Meyer Lemon Tree today, and you may be surprised by getting lemons sooner than you thought. In hardly any time at all, you’ll have fresh lemons to make excellent desserts like lemon bars sweeter than ever. You’ll also receive plenty of nutritious vitamins and minerals.
