The WALA Plant Library
Lemon

Synonyms for Lemon: Citrus medica. Citrus Limonum
Scientific Name: Citrus limon L.
Family: Rutaceae

Description:

Everyone knows the yellow, oval fruits of the lemon. You couldn't imagine a kitchen without them today. Botanically speaking, the lemon is a berry with its seeds enclosed in the fleshy pulp. The appearance and taste of this acid citrus fruit have given rise to many a proverb or saying. In our part of the world the lemon tree is only seen in orangeries or botanical gardens. In the warmer climates which the tree needs to thrive it reaches a height of up to fifteen feet. The dark green, leathery leaves have an aromatic scent. The flowers, white on the inside and tinged with deep pink on the outside, cover the tree throughout the year allowing fresh ripe lemons to be harvested three to four times a year.