Citrus limonimedica Lush.

ORIGIN DATA:

Probably originated by natural hybridization between a lemon and a citron, it was cultivated in the gardens of the Dominican friars, hence its name. At the beginning of the 17th century it was introduced in the Medici gardens. It is characterized by the size of its fruits, small among the lemon-citrons.

TREE AND FRUIT DESCRIPTION:

The fruits are pyriform and pale yellow in color. They may have an apical mamelon, in which the style is persistent until the end of ripening. The rind is rough and delicate, aromatic. The albedo is edible, of medium thickness. The pulp is juicy and acid, with an interesting flavor.

USES:

The rind can be used as zest in sweets and for seasoning. The albedo is consumed fresh, in salads. Its juice is a distinctive substitute for table lemon.