CHARACTERISTICS
The first citrus fruit to arrive in Italy was almost certainly the Citron mentioned by the Greek Theophrastus, Virgil, and Pliny.

It was called mala medica, i.e. apple from Media, an ancient region of Asia Minor, and the Latin name, which immediately brings to mind medicine, has therefore no connection with its alleged virtues, which, moreover, have changed somewhat in the various civilisations.

The Citron or Cedar is a variety of citrus plant of the Rutaceae family from Asia.

It has an irregular and fast growing shape and slightly rounded, light green leaves up to 20 cm long and it has a lemon-like scent.
The gnarled branches have numerous thorns about 5 cm long.
It is characterised by large, fragrant white flowers and oddly shaped, fleshy, highly fragrant fruits with a thick rind rich in essential oils, green at first and lemon-yellow when ripe, with a moderately acidic juice.
The fruit has almost no pulp and is generally quite acidic.

In fact, it contains the endoderm which is called albedo.

The albedo is very well developed, tender and it has an aromatic flavour without a bitter aftertaste.

The Citron is a super popular citrus variety!

The peel, sweet and thick, makes up 60-70% of the fruit, and is the part most used by industry.
In fact, it is used in the preparation of jams, candied fruit and liqueurs, and is also excellent for garnishing savoury dishes from fish to meat.
Pharmaceutical and cosmetics companies are crazy about it.
Unforgettable essences can be created from the citron fruit and in particular its flowers.
The peel is used in the preparation of jams, candied fruit and liqueurs, and it is also excellent for garnishing savoury dishes from fish to meat.
Citronade is well known in post-war Italy and much loved by older generationsa refreshing and tasty drink that is easy to prepare at home, an excellent remedy for hot summer days.
The cedar is also a symbol of great religious traditions.