Lemons are grown in both dry and humid conditions, the latter being a disadvantage mainly in the processes of curing and storage. In long dry periods, lemons must be irrigated. Need moist soil, but never freestanding water. The leading acid citrus fruit, because of its very appealing color, odor and flavor. The true lemon tree reaches 10 to 20 feet in height and usually has sharp throrns on the twigs.
Leaves are reddish when young, and become dark green above, light green below.
Mildly fragrant flowers may be solitary, or there may be two or more. Buds are reddish. Opened flowers have 4 or 5 petals, white on upper surface, purplish beneath. It is aromatic, dotted with oil glands. Pulp is pale yellow, in 8 to 10 segments, juicy, acid.