Citrus limon x reticulata
Origin: New Zealand
Family: Rutaceae
Part used: Fruit
Thriving in warm climates, the fruit flourishes on bushes that are hardy and resilient. During the growing season, these plants showcase vibrant green leaves, delicate flowers and yellow fruit.
Unlike regular lemons and limes that can be quite acidic, the lemonade has a mild sweetness that is particularly refreshing. It can be used in various beverages, sauces, and dressings, providing a unique twist to both sweet and savoury dishes. Bartenders have begun to experiment with it in craft cocktails, while chefs incorporate it into marinades and desserts.
Fragrance notes
The aroma is fresh and vibrant, with slightly sweeter notes compared to a lemon.
- Lemonade juice
- Lemonade zest
First discovered in New Zealand as a chance seedling in the 1980s. It is believed to be a hybrid between a mandarin orange and a lemon. It is now grown widely in the warmer parts of New Zealand and is also cultivated in Australia, California and Florida. The fruit resembles that of a lemon, but more round instead of ellipsoidal, ranging between 7 and 10 cm in diameter. The smooth rind is yellow when ripe, and the flesh, while resembling the lemon in flavour is softer and sweeter with less acidity.