Lemon

Origin: South Asia

Family: Rutaceae
Subfamily: Aurantioideae
Scientific Name: Citrus limon

Magical

Element: Water
Day: Monday
Planet: The Moon
Zodiac: Pisces, Cancer
Deities: All moon deities, Philotes

Parts Used: Fruits, flowers, leaves

Magical Properties: Cleansing, friendship, consecration, tranquillity

Substitutions: Lemongrass, other citrus

Aromatherapy

Part Used: Peels
Extraction Method: Cold-pressed
Flash Point: 53°C

Scent Type: Citrus
Perfume Note: Top
Scent Description: Bright, fresh, fruity-citrus scent

Aromatherapeutic Uses

Blends well with: Lavender, eucalyptus, juniper, fennel, and geranium

Warnings:

• Phototoxic: Do not expose skin to sunlight for 12-72 hours after topical use (may not apply to steam-distilled oil).
• May cause skin irritation and sensitisation, dilute double for topical application.

Botanical

Genetic research into citrus fruits have pinpointed Bergamot as most likely being a hybrid of bitter orange and citron.

Type: Evergreen tree
Plant size: 3-6m
Leaves: Glossy, dark green, up to 15cm long
Flowers: 5cm white, four-petalled flowers
Fruit: Yellow round fruits, 10-15cm in diameter

Etymology: The name seems to come from the Persian limun, the generic name for citrus fruit.

In the Garden

Type: Evergreen tree
Sow: Spring
Light: Full sun
Water: Water regularly
Soil: Well-drained

Companion Planting: Calendula, dill, borage, marigold, peas, thyme, yarrow