SafePlants

Rough Lemon (Citrus jambhiri)

The Rough Lemon, scientifically known as Citrus jambhiri, is a citrus hybrid related to the citron and lemon. It is frequently used as a rootstock for other citrus varieties.

Considerations for Pets

• The Rough Lemon tree is described as a large, spreading, thorny tree. The presence of thorns may pose a physical hazard.

Considerations for Children

• The Rough Lemon tree is described as a large, spreading, thorny tree. The presence of thorns may pose a physical hazard.

Common Names

• Rough Lemon
• Florida Rough Lemon
• Jambiri
• Jambheri
• Jhamirdi
• Jatti Khatti
• Khatti

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Order: Sapindales
• Family: Rutaceae (Rue family)
• Genus: Citrus L.
• Species: Citrus jambhiri Lush.
• Synonyms:
  • Citrus x limon (L.) Osbeck, pro sp. X ? (sensu Federici et al. 2000)
  • Citrus x jambhiri Lush, pro sp. (sensu Mabberley 1997)
  • Citrus x taitensis Risso (sensu Mabberley 1997)

Distribution and Habitat

• The Rough Lemon originated in the Himalayan foothills in India.
• It has been used as a rootstock for citrus in Australia for over a century.
• It is a commonly used Citrus rootstock in South Asia.

Ecological Role

• Lemon (Citrus limon) using rough lemon rootstocks are extremely vigorous.

Morphological Characteristics

• The Rough Lemon can grow into a large tree.
• The lemons ripen in June and are medium-sized with a thick skin.
• The fruit has orange-yellow, rough skin.
• The tree is described as a large spreading thorny tree.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Rough lemon citrus seedlings can be inoculated with Fusarium solani to study changes in water relations.
• Rough lemon is considered tolerant to Huanglongbing, a devastating citrus disease.
• A pathotype of the fungus Alternaria citri attacks rough lemon plants.

Additional Information

• The fruit is considered to be of low quality.
• Rough lemon is very hardy to cold temperatures.