Shrub or small tree, spinous. Leaves 55-110 x 30-75 mm, ovate-elliptic, crenate, apex obtuse. Leaf imperfectly jointed to the petiole; petiole inconspicuously winged. Flowers 1-few, in racemes. Petals purplish on the outside, fleshy. Stamens 25-40. Fruit 6-10 cm in diameter, oblong mamillate; rind cadmium-yellow when ripe, pulp very acid.

Fl. Per.: April-May. Fr. Per.: August-Dec.

Type: Probably of Indian origin.

The citron or ‘Tarung’ (Citrus medica) is sometimes cultivated in Baluchistan and the plains, but more common is var. acida. It is the commonest and the hardiest of the citrus species in Pakistan, found frequently in the northern Punjab and the foothills. It may be used in marmalade but it is too sour for ordinary use. Useful as a stock for grafting; also planted as a hedge.