Kagzi nimbu (Lemon)

The Kagazi lemon plant, also known as the Indian Wild Lemon, is a citrus plant notable for its vigorous growth and thorny branches. Here are some key features and descriptions:

Plant Characteristics:

• Growth Habit: The Kagazi lemon plant is a perennial, evergreen shrub or small tree. It has a bushy appearance with dense foliage.
• Height: It can grow up to 3-6 meters (10-20 feet) in height.
• Thorns: The branches are typically armed with sharp thorns.

Leaves:

• Appearance: The leaves are dark green, glossy, and elliptical with a pointed tip.
• Aroma: When crushed, the leaves release a characteristic lemon fragrance.

Flowers:

• Color: The flowers are white with a slight purplish tinge.
• Fragrance: They are highly fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees.

Fruits:

• Shape and Size: The fruits are oval to round, similar to other lemon varieties.
• Color: They start green and turn yellow when ripe.
• Peel: The peel is relatively thin and smooth.
• Juice: The fruit is known for its high juice content, which is very acidic and flavorful.
• Seeds: It contains numerous seeds.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Prefers warm, subtropical to tropical climates.
• Soil: Thrives in well-draining, sandy to loamy soils with a slightly acidic pH.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
• Watering: Needs regular watering, especially during dry spells, but is tolerant of short periods of drought once established.

Uses:

• Culinary: The juice is widely used in culinary applications for its tangy flavor, from beverages to cooking and seasoning.
• Medicinal: Often used in traditional medicine for its high vitamin C content and other beneficial properties.
• Aromatic: The leaves and peel are used for their aromatic qualities in various preparations.