Citrus medica L.

ORIGIN DATA:

The Piretto Citron may owe its name to the morphology of its fruits, which are elongated and resemble an ancient vessel. The same name is applied to different cultivars of citron with fruits of similar morphology, although of very different sizes. The Pirettos are very appreciated in the region of Catania (Italy).

TREE AND FRUIT DESCRIPTION:

The tree is moderately vigorous. The fruits are elongated and usually have a more or less pointed apical protuberance. Fruits are of small-medium size within the citrus, although there are cultivars with large fruits. Its rind can be quite rough, but there is also variability among cultivars. The albedo is edible, firm, sweet and crunchy, with a good bite. Depending on the cultivar, the thickness of the albedo varies and can be very thick. The flesh is medium juicy, aromatic and less acidic than lemons or other citrons.

USES:

The albedo-pulp combination is interesting in this citron. It is consumed fresh, in salads or as an accompaniment. In Catania, the smaller-fruited cultivars are eaten fresh, cut in half and spread with salt.