Ichang Lemon

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Ichang Lemon
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Subclass: Rosidae
Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Citrus
Species: C. ichangensis

The Ichang Lemon (Citrus ichangensis, also called Ichang papeda) is a slow-growing species of the genus Citrus, which has characteristic lemon-scented foliage and flowers. It is native to East Asia and is likely named for the city of Yichang (宜昌), in China's Hubei province.

The Ichang Lemon's main claim to fame is its unusual hardiness. With the exception of Poncirus trifoliata (which is not generally regarded as a true citrus), it is the hardiest citrus plant, tolerating both moderate frost and damp conditions. For this reason, it is perhaps the only species of true citrus which can be reliably grown outside in the temperate areas of Europe and the United States.

Although its name suggests it is a variety of lemon, it is actually a member of the Papeda subgenus of citrus. Other members of the subgenus include the Makrut or Kaffir Lime which is used in oriental cuisines and the Khasi Papeda from the Khasi hills of north-east India.

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