A Meyer lemon tree is a Chinese native that was brought to the United States by Frank Meyer in the early 1900’s. Experts believe that it is a hybrid cross of Citrus limon (lemon) and Citrus reticulata (mandarin orange). Meyer lemon fruit is a sweeter and juicier version of the common lemon.
You will likely only find “improved” Meyer lemon trees in the garden store. That is exactly what you will want to buy. The first batch of Meyer lemon trees to hit the market carried a tristeza virus that was lethal to other citrus trees. The tree was replaced with a virus-free variety that today is referred to as “improved” Meyer lemon.

Meyer Lemon vs. Lemon Trees
Meyer lemon trees are small fruit trees that generally top out at or under 10 feet (3 m) tall, while other lemon tree types can grow to three times that tall. Dwarf Meyer lemon trees are even smaller.
Both regular lemon and Meyer lemon are evergreen trees with shiny dark green leaves and fragrant blossoms. Both offer yellow citrus fruit. The regular lemon fruit peel is rough while Meyer fruit is smooth and smooth. Meyer lemons are also very juicy and sweet tasting, unlike regular lemons.