Citrus plats are large shrubs or small trees, reaching 5–15 m tall, with spiny shoots and alternately arranged evergreen leaves with an entire margin. The flowers are solitary or in small groups, each flower 2–4 cm diameter, with five (rarely four) white petals and numerous stamens; they are often very strongly scented. The fruit is a hesperidium, a specialised berry, globose to elongated, 4–30 cm long and 4–20 cm diameter, with a leathery rind surrounding segments or “liths” filled with pulp vesicles. Many species are cultivated for their fruit, which is eaten fresh or pressed for juice.
Citrus fruits are notable for their fragrance and most are juice-laden. The juice contains a high quantity of citric acid giving them their characteristic sharp flavour. They are also a good source of vitamin C.
