The Meyer Lemon’s Origin
The Meyer lemon is a popular citrus fruit known for its sweet, floral, and tangy flavor. It was first discovered in China, where it was used for cooking and medicinal purposes. The Meyer lemon is believed to be a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin or orange.
Wuhan and Frank N. Meyer
The Meyer lemon was named after Frank N. Meyer, a plant explorer who discovered the fruit along the Yangtze River in Wuhan, China in the early 1900s. Meyer was a Dutch immigrant who worked for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a plant collector and explorer. During his time in China, he discovered many new plant species, including the Meyer lemon.
Meyer Lemon’s Discovery
Meyer discovered the lemon in 1908 while on a plant-collecting expedition in China. The fruit was initially thought to be a hybrid between a lemon and an orange, but later studies showed that it was more likely a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin. Meyer sent samples of the fruit back to the USDA, where it was studied and eventually introduced to the United States.
Meyer Lemon’s Characteristics
The Meyer lemon is smaller and rounder than a traditional lemon, with a thin, smooth, and fragrant skin. It is sweeter and less acidic than a typical lemon, with a floral aroma and a distinct flavor. The juice of the Meyer lemon is also slightly orange in color, while traditional lemon juice is clear.
Meyer Lemon’s Cultivation
Meyer lemons are grown in warm climates, such as California, Florida, and Texas. They prefer a well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Meyer lemons can be grown from seed, but are usually propagated through grafting or cuttings. They are typically smaller and less productive than other citrus trees, but are prized for their unique flavor and aroma.
Meyer Lemon’s Arrival in the US
The Meyer lemon was introduced to the United States in 1908 by the USDA. It was initially used as a decorative plant, but quickly became popular among chefs and cooks for its unique flavor and fragrance.
Meyer Lemons in California
Meyer lemons were first planted in California in the early 1900s, where they quickly became popular among home gardeners and farmers. They were especially prized for their ability to grow in cooler coastal regions, where traditional lemons struggled.
Meyer Lemon’s Popularity
The Meyer lemon’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 20th century, as more and more people discovered its unique flavor and aroma. It was used in a variety of dishes, including desserts, cocktails, and savory dishes.
Meyer Lemons in the 20th Century
In the mid-20th century, the Meyer lemon fell out of favor due to concerns over a citrus virus that affected many different types of citrus trees. Meyer lemons were believed to be carriers of the virus, and were largely replaced by other varieties of citrus.
Meyer Lemon’s Decline
The decline of the Meyer lemon was further exacerbated by its susceptibility to a disease called "Meyer lemon decline," which caused the trees to die off prematurely. This disease was caused by a soil-borne virus that attacked the roots of the tree.
Meyer Lemon’s Comeback
In the late 20th century, the Meyer lemon made a comeback, thanks in part to the development of disease-resistant varieties of the fruit. Today, Meyer lemons are once again a popular choice among home gardeners and chefs alike.
Conclusion
The Meyer lemon is a unique and flavorful citrus fruit that has a fascinating history. Originally discovered in China by Frank N. Meyer in the early 1900s, the fruit was introduced to the United States by the USDA and quickly became popular among chefs and home gardeners. Despite falling out of favor in the mid-20th century, the Meyer lemon has made a comeback in recent years, and is once again a beloved fruit among citrus enthusiasts.
