Volkamer Lemon

The Volkamer Lemon is not actually a lemon, but rather an acidic mandarin resulting from a natural hybridization between an Ancient Mandarin and a Citron. It was described in Italy in the 17th century and is named after J.C. Volkamer, a German botanist born in the 17th century who, at the beginning of the 18th century, wrote a major treatise on citrus fruits. Its origin is unknown, but since its parentage has been determined, it is assumed to have an Asian origin, like other acidic mandarins. Its main use is as a rootstock for grafting other citrus fruits, especially lemon trees.

Vigorous tree with a rounded shape and open growth, but not very large. Leaves are rather small and elliptical. Fruits are spherical or slightly rounded, medium-sized, and characterized by an apical nipple usually surrounded by areola. The bark is thin, semi-rough, and aromatic. Intense yellow in color, it turns orange at the end of maturity. Juicy, acidic, and bitter pulp, fresh and aromatic, with an orange-yellow color. It has numerous seeds.

Excellent substitute for lemon, adding a different character to dishes.