A fabulous twist on the familiar lemon that will excite both seasoned citrus growers and beginners. Red Lemon or Citrus Lemon ‘Rosso’ is a rare variety with unique characteristics, making it a superb ornamental variety for patio displays, as well as producing delicious fruit.
Large, intensely fragrant flowers emerge from purple buds in spring, sometimes continuing through summer and autumn. The flowers develop into large fruits that vary in colour from red to orange depending on climate. In cold weather, purplish tones can also appear. The fragrant, fleshy fruits have a fine flavour and sometimes contain reddish pulp.
Citrus Lemon ‘Rosso’ or the Red Lemon is an unusual variety with mysterious origins. Thought to come from southern Italy, it contains Citrus medica in its parentage – hence the impressive size of its fruit. Lemons are one of the easier citrus trees to grow and Citrus Lemon ‘Rosso’ will make an intriguing addition to any citrus collection.
Lemon trees are capable of surviving brief periods below 0C, but are best grown in large containers and moved indoors to a bright frost free position from autumn to spring. This tree is self fertile and does not need a pollination partner.
Eventual height: 3m (9'). Spread: 2.5m (8').
Estimated time to cropping once planted: 1 year.
Estimated time to best yields: 3 years.
Growing Information
Plant citrus trees in patio containers in a mix of ericaceous compost and neutral, soil based compost such as John Innes No. 3. Repot the plant at its original soil level and firm well into the new container. Water well and position in a frost free position in full sun.
