Yemenite Citron - Classification

Classification

Despite its differences from standard varieties, the Yemenite citron was attested by a group of citrus and genetic experts to be a true variety of citron and possessing a close genetic relation with the rest of the types. A brief documentation of this study was presented at the Global Citrus Germplasm Network.

Although other varieties of pulpless citron, such as Buddha's hand, can be found in India and China, most Jewish cultures are not aware of them. The Yemenite Jews say it went with them through tradition, and even believe it was in their hands since The First Temple.

Some argue that the absence of pulp is clear evidence for its genetic purity, and that other varieties developed a pulp due to being grafted upon Lemon or Orange rootstock. This assertion is contested by virtue of the fact that the fruits of a Yemenite tree at the Citrus Variety Collection contain no pulp despite being grafted on foreign rootstock.