The lemonade fruit botanically known as Citrus limon x cinensis is a member of the Rutaceae or citrus family and grows on the evergreen lemonade tree. While commercial production has yet to take off the lemonade fruit is a popular home garden tree in Australia and New Zealand and can be found growing today by select specialty citrus growers in the United States as well.

In appearance, lemonade fruit looks and feels like a classic lemon. They are round to ovate with smooth, lemon yellow skin and juicy, translucent yellow flesh. Their mandarin orange parentage is evident in their sweet aromatic flesh that similar to that of a mandarin can be easily segmented. The thorn speckled branches of the lemonade tree will bear aromatic white blooms and vivid green foliage, a characteristic that makes them popular for use as an ornamental tree. The fruit of the lemonade tree is less acidic than other citruses and when used in a beverage does not need sugar added.

Serving Ideas

The lemonade fruit’s sweet flavor can lend itself to several applications: sweet, savory, cooked, raw, juiced, preserved even pickled. Its flavor marries well with cucumbers, avocados, tropical fruits, other citrus, fresh herbs such as thyme, basil and lavender, robust cheeses, seafood and poultry. Use lemonade fruit juice in marmalade, jams, cocktails, vinaigrette, sauces and syrups. Use in lieu of lemon or oranges where zest, garnish and citrus rind are called for.

Geography/History

The lemonade fruit is produced from the lemonade lemon tree, which is a hybrid between the common lemon and mandarin tree. First developed in Australia in the 1980's, the lemonade tree exhibits qualities of both parent varieties. Like many varieties of citrus the lemonade tree will thrive in fertile, well-drained soil and in warm sunny climates not susceptible to frost.

Seasons/Availability

Lemonade fruit is available during the winter and early spring months.