The pink lemon AKA pink lemonade tree is actually its own variety. It is not a hybrid, rather simply unique to the Eureka lemon family. Although it is not the most productive of lemon varieties, perhaps because their variegated leaves are low in chlorophyll, the fruits produced are highly edible and delicious. The older fruit loses their stripes and develop flesh pigmented pink from lycopene, the same compound that colors pink grapefruit.

Younger pink lemons are variegated, with green and off white stripes on the outside, and a rosé hued pink flesh inside. As the lemons mature the variegation reverts and the pink flesh intensifies. Pink lemons have a tangy and tart flavor, a rich lemon scent and very few seeds if any. Their leaves are highly fragrant, considered the most fragrant among lemon trees. Pink lemons become less acidic with age. They are best suited for their juice and their zest.

Serving Ideas

Sweetened with sugar or agave the juice of pink lemons make a delicious lemonade. For a sweet twist on the classics try using the juice of pink lemons in your favorite lemon cake, lemon bars, or lemon pie recipe. Their vibrant exterior makes them a perfect garnish for cocktails!

Geography/History

The variegated pink lemon is a mutant variety first discovered in a home garden on an ordinary Eureka lemon tree in Burbank, California circa 1930. It is grown as a farmers market fruit in limited quantities throughout Southern California.

Seasons/Availability

Sporadicly, pink lemons are available beginning winter through mid-summer.