Variegated Pink Lemonade Lemon (Citrus limon 'Pink Lemonade')

Variegated pink lemonade lemon (Citrus limon 'Pink Lemonade') is a stunning ornamental and culinary citrus cultivar prized for its variegated foliage, pink-tinged new growth, and fruit with pink flesh and striped rind. A sport of 'Eureka' lemon, it's a favorite for containers and edible landscapes.

Description

Small evergreen tree 8–12 feet tall (smaller in pots) with a rounded habit. Leaves are green with creamy-white margins; new growth is flushed pink. Flowers are white, fragrant, with purple buds. Fruit is medium-sized, oval, with a green-and-yellow striped rind when ripe; flesh is pink, juicy, acidic, and low-seeded. Variegation is stable but may revert—remove solid-green shoots.

Growing Conditions

• Zones: 9–11 outdoors; excellent container plant for colder zones.
• Light: Full sun (8+ hours) for best variegation and fruiting.
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 6.0–6.5), rich in organic matter.
• Water: Consistent moisture; allow top 2 inches to dry between waterings.
• Temperature: Protect below 32°F (0°C). Ideal 65–85°F (18–29°C).
• Humidity: Moderate.

Care & Maintenance

Feed with citrus fertilizer 3×/year. Prune to shape and remove reverted growth. Watch for citrus pests (leaf miner, scale, aphids). Repot container plants every 2–3 years. Hand-pollinate indoors for fruit set.

Uses

Ornamental container citrus, edible landscape, patio tree. Fruit makes pink lemonade, garnishes, and marmalade. Variegated foliage adds year-round interest.

Potential Issues

Reversion to solid green. Root rot in heavy soil. Cold damage. Sunburn on variegated leaves in intense heat—provide light afternoon shade in hottest climates.

A show-stopping citrus that delivers beauty and flavor in equal measure.