Lemon Yuzu - 4L Pot

Lemon ‘Yuzu’ is a distinctive evergreen citrus tree prized for its intensely aromatic peel and tart, fragrant juice. Widely used in Japanese and other East Asian cuisines, Yuzu brings a unique citrus flavour to cooking, dressings, marinades, sauces and desserts.

In spring, small, strongly scented white flowers appear amongst the green foliage, followed by rounded, tangerine-sized fruit with a thick, bumpy skin. The fruit begins bright green before gradually ripening to yellow and sometimes developing orange tones.

Unlike traditional lemons, Yuzu is grown primarily for its highly fragrant zest and distinctive citrus flavour, rather than for producing large quantities of juice.

Naturally upright and thorny, Yuzu can be grown as a small tree or maintained as a compact shrub with regular pruning. It is also one of the more cold-tolerant citrus varieties, making it a useful option for Melbourne gardens where winter temperatures can be challenging for other citrus trees.

Mature size: approximately 3 metres high × 3 metres wide

Care & Growing Tips
Plant in full sun to part shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. A sunny position will generally encourage the best flowering and fruit production.

Water regularly while establishing and during extended periods of hot, dry weather. Consistent moisture is particularly important during summer and while fruit is developing, although Yuzu does not tolerate waterlogged soil.

Feed with a citrus-specific fertiliser in spring and late summer, following the manufacturer's application instructions. Regular feeding helps maintain healthy foliage and supports flowering and fruiting.

Apply mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk.

Prune lightly in late winter to remove dead, damaged or crossing branches and maintain the desired shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this may reduce flowering and fruit production. Take care when pruning, as Yuzu has sharp thorns.

Although more cold tolerant than many other citrus varieties, young trees should still be protected from severe frost, particularly during establishment.

Harvest fruit when the skin has developed its characteristic yellow colour for a fully ripe, aromatic flavour. Green fruit can also be harvested earlier for its fresh, sharp citrus notes.

Ideal for
– Home orchards.
– Edible gardens.
– Japanese-inspired gardens.
– Culinary herb and produce gardens.
– Growing citrus for zest and cooking.
– Homemade sauces, dressings and marinades.
– Fragrant citrus planting.
– Sunny courtyards and sheltered gardens.
– Gardeners wanting unusual citrus varieties.
– Cooler-climate citrus growing.