Is Lemon a Fruit or Vegetable?

Lemons are unarguably fruits, both from a scientific standpoint and even on the kitchen counter. They grow from the flower of a plant, and they have seeds inside, which are the scientific conditions for something to be a fruit. Lemons are also classified as fruit in cooking because of their sour and acidic flavour, commonly used in drinks, desserts and as additives for flavouring.

Continue reading to learn why lemons are the ideal example of a fruit.

Is Lemon a Fruit?

In science, a fruit is the part of a plant that grows from the flower and holds seeds. Lemons fit this definition perfectly. They grow from the flower of the lemon tree and have seeds inside. Because of this, scientists call lemons a type of fruit known as a hesperidium, which is a kind of berry with a thick rind and juicy flesh, common in citrus fruits.

Is Lemon a Vegetable?

In the kitchen, it is common to gather foods by how they taste and how they are used together. Vegetables are mostly savoury flavours and are typically cooked for use in main meals. Seek out sweet or tangy flavours which are added to drinks or desserts or eaten raw in fruits. 

FAQs About Lemons

1. Is lemon a fruit or vegetable?

Lemon is a fruit. It develops from the flower of a plant and contains seeds, which meets the scientific definition of a fruit. In cooking, it’s also used like other fruits.

2. Why is lemon not considered a vegetable?

Vegetables are usually other parts of the plant like leaves, roots, or stems. Lemons grow from the flower and contain seeds, so they don’t fit the vegetable category.

3. Is lemon a citrus fruit?

Yes, lemon is a citrus fruit. It belongs to the citrus family (Rutaceae), along with oranges, limes, and grapefruits. These fruits are known for their juicy, tangy flavour and high vitamin C content.

5. Is lemon a berry?

Yes, in botanical terms, lemons are a type of berry called a hesperidium, which is specific to citrus fruits. These fruits have a thick peel and juicy interior.

Fun Facts About Lemons

• Citrus Family: Lemons belong to the citrus group, along with oranges, limes, and grapefruits.
• Grow All Year: Lemon trees can produce fruit multiple times a year in warm climates.
• High in Vitamin C: Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which helps keep your immune system strong.
• Old Origins: Lemons are believed to have first grown in Asia, especially India and China.
• Used in History: In the past, sailors took lemons on long trips to help prevent scurvy, a disease caused by lack of vitamin C.

Conclusion

So, is a lemon a fruit or a vegetable? The answer is simple; it’s a fruit. Science and cooking both agree. Lemons are full of flavour, healthy, and one of the most useful fruits around.

Read More: Is Tomato a Fruit or Vegetable?