Limone dell'Etna

Limone dell'Etna is a term referring to lemons that are grown along the Etna coastal strip, between the Alcantara river and the northern parts of Catania. The lemons are divided into two cultivars – Femminello and Monachello. The Femminello is harvested in winter, spring, or summer.

It has an elliptical shape and the flesh color ranges from light green to light yellow or lemon yellow. The Monachello variety is also harvested in winter, spring, or summer, and the shape is elliptical, ovoid, or spheroidal. These lemons are rich in essential oils of high aromatic quality, which can be attributed to the fact that they are grown in an environment with a specific volcanic soil and climate.

A special growing technique known as forzatura or secca allows the lemons to be produced in summer. Etna lemons are especially suitable for making juices and candied peel.