Within the extensive lemon family, there exist a multitude of varieties, nuances and characteristics. One of the most popular, versatile and peculiar variety is also the one with the most curious name: Eureka lemon. This variety, originally developed in California in the mid-19th century, can be found in many places nowadays, since due to its characteristics, it is one of the most widespread lemons. Below you will find all you need to know about the Eureka lemon.

A lemon for all the year round

Although its optimum season comes between late winter and early spring, one of the most remarkable characteristics of the Eureka lemon is that it can be grown all year round. However, its resistance to cold is quite limited so, although its production can be adapted to any time of the year, it shall only be grown in areas with mild winters and moderate temperatures. That’s why it is also known by the nickname ''four seasons'' lemon.

Global crop

Although this lemon is quite sensitive to cold, one of its most outstanding characteristics is its adaptability and resistance to practically any type of soil, being even capable of growing in sand and other less fertile soils. This makes its cultivation widely spread as it can be found in places all around the globe, from its native California to Chile, Australia, South Africa or Spain. It is probably one of the most widespread varieties of lemon.

Eureka Lemon, the perfect citrus

Although it is not the only lemon that meets all the canons, the Eureka lemon is one of the most aesthetically appealing varieties within the lemon family. Above all, because of its intense yellow colour, its canonical elliptical shape and a small nipple at the end that makes it look very appealing. The skin is not thin; it tends to be slightly rough and not very easy to separate from the pulp.

Acidic, aromatic and juicy

Three characteristics, beyond aesthetics, help to differentiate the Eureka lemon from other varieties. Its inside, tender and seedless, makes it a very juicy lemon... although that amount of juice does not imply sweetness, as Eureka has a pretty high acidity level. Besides, on top of its juiciness and acidity, its scent stands out: walking through a field of Eureka lemon trees is a delight, and having it in your garden is practically like having a natural air freshener.

What is it recommended for?

The Eureka lemon is very popular in gastronomy. Although its taste may be a little acidic to drink as a fresh juice, it is precisely its acidity, together with its lack of seeds and its availability all the  year round, what makes it very popular among the chefs: it is perfect for dressings, desserts, as a seasoning for fish and even as an ingredient in cocktails and ready-to-drink beverages.

Great source of vitamin C

The properties of the Eureka lemon do not differ much from those of any other variety of lemon or citrus fruit, although due to its peculiarities, there is one feature that stands out above the rest: its acidity, which is indicative of its large amount of vitamin C. That makes it very popular as a remedy against colds and flu, but also, as an aid to digestion. Also, due to its high vitamin C content, it can help strengthening your hair, teeth and nails.