Grown widely in Iran, Sweet Persian Lemons are unique, they are sweet in fact sweeter than any other lemons. They are best described as having the sweetness of an orange without the acidity.
This is a tree that grows in every household in Iran and it fruits from late summer through to spring. It is used to help ward off coughs and colds of winter as well as slightly sweet treat.
The botanical name is Citrus limetta and is commonly called Limoo Shirin -or Limu shirin.
The fascinating thing about this lemon is that although when first cut it tastes mildly sweet, then about 1 hour after it is cut it becomes sour.
So why is this lemon so popular?
It is only in Iran that they are widely grown, however they are finding a place in gardens around the world. They are popular because :
- They can be eaten like an orange.
- It is a lemon that is very high in vitamin C as well as containing good amounts of vitamin A in the rind.
- When fresh it can be squeezed into tea as a sweetener.
- You can preserve it or freeze the juice.
- You can also use the fruit in traditional Iranian cuisine.
Care
Similar to other lemon trees, a well drained soil and good sun are essential. It is self pollinating so you will only need one, and it is also long flowering.
It is best to buy grafted trees as they will usually fruit within two years.