Is lemon a fruit or a vegetable?
Although it is commonly referred to as a fruit, the lemon is in fact both a fruit and a vegetable. Botanically, the lemon is considered a berry with a rough and thick skin like other citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and limes.
Fruit
In its culinary aspect, lemon is seen as a fruit:
- Edible – The flesh of lemons can be eaten whole or used to flavor food and drinks.
- Juicy – The flesh of lemon is juicy and highly acidic.
- Sweet – Though lemons are filled with a tart juice, their flavor also has a hint of sweetness.
Vegetable
In its botanical aspect, lemon is a vegetable:
- Non-sweet –Though it has sweet notes, lemons contain no sugar.
- Rich in Vitamin C – Lemons have a particularly high concentration of Vitamin C and other essential vitamins and minerals.
- Stem and leaves present – The lemon tree has yellow flowers, stems, and leaves; it is not just the fruit that can be consumed.
It is for these reasons that the lemon is widely considered both a fruit and a vegetable. Nutritionally, the lemon is a powerhouse, making it an important part of daily diets for many people. Lemons are a versatile addition to any meal and can also be used for a variety of medicinal and other purposes.
