Lemon plant vs orange plant: How to tell them apart?

Even though lemons and oranges are both members of the citrus family, one might not realize how different the plants are until they actually grow them and learn the necessary information. In case a person is a beginner at gardening, they will find it interesting and helpful to know the differences between these two plants. This knowledge will help them to determine which species is growing in the home garden and care for it correctly. This presentation is created for those people who would like to learn how to tell a lemon plant from an orange plant.

Leaf shape and texture

A quick way to understand whether someone sees an orange or a lemon plant in front of them is by comparing the leaves of these plants. A lemon plant leaf is narrower than the leaf of the orange plant, and its edge is slightly serrated, and it ends in a pointy part. The leaf of the orange plant, however, is thicker and glossier than a lemon one; moreover, its edge is smooth.

Leaf aroma when crushed

Another simple method is to gently crush a leaf and smell it. Lemon leaves release a sharp, tangy citrus scent that is quite distinct and refreshing. Orange leaves, on the other hand, have a milder and slightly sweet citrus aroma. This difference in fragrance comes from the natural oils present in the leaves and can help you identify the plant even without seeing the fruit.

Presence of thorns

Thorns are present in both plants, but they differ in their sizes and shapes. A lemon plant has sharp long thorns on its branches. On the contrary, if a gardener finds out that there are no thorns or only a few small spiky parts sticking from the stems of the plants, then it is very likely that it is a lemon plant.

Flower appearance and fragrance

The flowers of these plants are pretty similar as well because they both have white and fragrant flowers. Still, there is still something about them that makes it possible to distinguish these plants. In case a gardener smells an intense and sharp fragrance coming from the flower, it means that this plant grows lemons. Orange blossoms have a sweeter smell.

Fruit shape and skin texture

In case the plants bear fruits already, it will not take any effort to tell which type of fruits they are. It should be noted that oranges and lemons differ in color and shape significantly. A person will easily notice that lemon fruit is elongated and slightly pointed, whereas oranges are round and have smoother skin. Moreover, the oranges will develop an orange color.

Taste and internal structure

As one might guess, taste is what distinguishes oranges and lemons. Lemons are rather sour and have more segments inside but less pulp than oranges. Besides, lemons usually do not contain as many pieces of meat as oranges. Orange fruits are juicy and sweet, and they consist of many segments with pulp inside.

Disclaimer:

This article is for general informational purposes only. The comparisons and identification tips shared here are based on common characteristics of lemon and orange plants and may vary depending on the variety, growing conditions, and regional factors. Readers are advised to use these guidelines as a reference and consult local horticulture experts or plant specialists for more accurate identification and care recommendations.