Meyer Lemons vs. Regular Lemons

In the depths of winter when there's nothing much happening in the garden except mud & rain, there's a bright yellow beacon of flavour. Lemons, just when you need that vitamin C hit. There are many different varieties such as Eureka, Lisbon, Ponderosa, Yen Ben, Lemonade, Villa Franca. But it is Meyer Lemons that are NZ's most popular. But just what is it that makes these lemons so special? And are they really that different from regular lemons?

If you've ever wondered about the difference between Meyer lemons and regular lemons, here's what you need to know.

Regular Lemons

When we talk about regular or common lemons, we're usually referring to Eureka or Lisbon lemons. These are the two most common lemon varieties found in the produce section.

• Appearance - Compared to their Meyer counterparts, regular lemons are noticeably larger in size and pointy-er, with thick, textured, bright, sunny skin, and medium yellow pulp.
• Taste - Regular lemons are highly acidic. They're slightly sweet, but known for a tang that will make your mouth pucker.
• Availability - While there are certain times of year that trees will bear more fruit, regular lemons know no season. You'll find them readily available in the produce section all year long.

Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons were first introduced to the U.S. from China in the early 20th century by Frank Meyer, from whom they also got their name. This sweet(ish) winter citrus is thought to be a cross between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange. And that's what really sets it apart.

• Appearance - Meyer lemons are smaller and more round than regular lemons, with smoother, thin, deep yellow to orange skin, and dark yellow pulp. The skin is more fragile to tears also. The differences are very distinct, especially when you see both varieties side by side.
• Taste - While they're moderately acidic, Meyer lemons don't have the same tang as regular lemons. Instead, they're much sweeter. Their rinds also have a more complex scent than regular lemons — a spicy bergamot fragrance that tastes and smells more herbacious.
• Availability - While regular lemons are readily available all year long, Meyer lemons are more seasonal in the shops. At home on an established tree though, you will seldom be without a lemon as they are prolific croppers. They are also more tolerant of cold than other lemons.

Bearing this in mind i have both inground at home. A Eureka & a Meyer Lemon. The Meyer i have enjoyed many Lemons so far but the Eureka is just fruiting the first time this Winter.