Genoa Lemon Tree

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

8-12 Feet

Mature Spread

4-6 Feet

Growing Zones

4-10 patio / 9-10 outdoors

An heirloom from coastal Italy (introduced to the U.S. in 1875), the Genoa Lemon delivers classic, high-juice lemons on a naturally compact, bushy tree. Expect dense foliage, a steady flush of fragrant white blossoms, and heavy crops of medium, thin-skinned fruit with bright, kitchen-ready acidity—perfect for everyday cooking, baking, and fresh lemonade.

Genoa Lemon Tree Care

Set your tree in full sun (6–8+ hours) with fast-draining, slightly acidic soil (target pH ~6.0–6.5). In the ground, amend clay with grit and compost; in containers, use a chunky citrus mix with excellent drainage. Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry—deeply but infrequently—to keep moisture even through bloom and fruit fill.

Feed from early spring through midsummer with a citrus fertilizer that includes micronutrients (iron, magnesium); follow label rates and pause feeding in late summer. Lightly thin and shape after harvest to open the canopy, remove crossing shoots, and snip any suckers from below the graft union.

Protect from frost and cold winds (best outdoors in USDA Zones 9–11); in cooler regions, grow in a large container you can roll into a bright, cool room (50–60°F) before freezes.

Genoa Lemon Tree Spacing

As a compact, bush-form lemon, expect roughly 8–12 ft tall and 6–8 ft wide in the landscape. Space trees 8–10 ft apart for good light and airflow; keep 4–6 ft from walls, walks, or other shrubs.

For containers, start with an 18–24"+ diameter pot with drainage and a rolling caddy for easy winter moves; place planters 2–3 ft apart to ensure even light and easy harvest.

Why Grow the Genoa Lemon Tree?

• Prolific yields of juicy, thin-skinned lemons with classic, bright flavor

• Dense, compact habit ideal for patios, small gardens, and container growing

• Fragrant blossoms that attract pollinators and perfume the patio

• Reliable, low-maintenance citrus with simple seasonal feeding and light pruning

• Winter/early spring main crop, with scattered off-season fruit in warm climates

A space-savvy, heirloom lemon that earns its keep—plant a Genoa and enjoy baskets of fresh, aromatic fruit just steps from your kitchen.

SKU:

EDI-CIT-ITA-LGL