What Is a Sweet Lemon Also Known As? The Many Names of Citrus limetta

January 9, 2026 •

3 min read

Native to South Asia and Iran, a sweet lemon (Citrus limetta) is also commonly known as mosambi, a popular citrus fruit with a uniquely mild flavor. Despite its name, its low acidity and sweet taste set it apart from true lemons, which belong to the species Citrus limon. This versatile fruit is celebrated across the globe for its refreshing juice and various health benefits.

Quick Summary

The sweet lemon, or Citrus limetta, is identified by many regional names, including mosambi, sweet lime, and limu shirin. It is a unique, low-acid citrus with a sweet flavor, distinct from the more common sour lemon. This article explores its different monikers, characteristics, and culinary uses.

Key Points

Mosambi: In India and Pakistan, a sweet lemon is most commonly known as mosambi or mausambi, a staple of local fruit stalls.
Citrus limetta: The scientific name for a sweet lemon is Citrus limetta, differentiating it from the more acidic Citrus limon.
Low Acidity: Unlike a standard lemon, the sweet lemon has very low acidity, giving it a milder, sweeter flavor that is less tart.
Bitter After Juicing: The juice of a sweet lemon will rapidly turn bitter if exposed to air, making it best consumed immediately after preparation.
Regional Variations: Other regional names include limu shirin in Iran and mitha/meetha in Pakistan, all referring to its sweet taste.
Digestive Benefits: Rich in vitamin C and fiber, sweet lemon juice is often used in traditional remedies to aid digestion and prevent constipation.
Hydration: With high water content and electrolytes, sweet lemon juice is an excellent, low-calorie option for staying hydrated.

The Many Names of Sweet Lemon

The citrus fruit known as sweet lemon is a member of the Citrus limetta species, though it is sometimes considered a cultivar of the true lemon, Citrus limon. Its most recognized name, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, is mosambi, or mausambi. However, this fruit has accumulated a number of other names as it has spread across tropical and subtropical regions.

Global and Regional Names

Mosambi/Mausambi: The most common name in India and Pakistan.
Sweet Lime: A widely used English name that reflects its mild flavor and appearance.
Sweet Limetta: A more technical and specific English term, derived from its scientific name.
Limu Shirin: The name in Iran, which literally translates to "sweet lemon" in Persian.
Mitha/Meetha: Used in parts of Pakistan and India, meaning "sweet" in Urdu and Punjabi.
Battayi/Chinikaya: Regional names used in parts of South India.
Limón Dulce: A Spanish name used in the Dominican Republic, meaning "sweet lemon".
Bergamot: A confusingly similar name used in France, although it is not the true bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia).

Unpacking the Flavor and Characteristics

The flavor profile of a sweet lemon is a key differentiator from its more acidic relatives. The taste is sweet and mild, retaining only a faint hint of a traditional lime's essence. This low-acidity profile gives it a flatter flavor compared to other citruses. A notable characteristic is the rapid change in taste of its juice when exposed to air; it can turn bitter within minutes due to the compound limonin. For this reason, it is best enjoyed immediately after juicing.

Visually, the sweet lemon is a small, round fruit, often a greenish-yellow color, and can look similar to a round, greenish-orange. The pulp inside is juicy and pale, contrasting with the vibrant yellow of a standard lemon. The rind is leathery and contains prominent oil glands.

Uses in Culinary and Traditional Practices

The versatility of the sweet lemon makes it a staple in many cuisines and home remedies, particularly in South Asia. Its juice is a popular and refreshing drink, especially during hot weather. In India, it is often sold at mobile street stalls and can be mixed with chaat masala for a sweet, salty, and spicy flavor profile.

Juice: The most common use is extracting the juice for beverages. It provides instant energy and is great for hydration.
Culinary Dishes: Slices of the fruit can be added to salads or fruit chaat. The juice is also used in marinades, sauces, and desserts like jams and sorbets.
Home Remedies: In traditional medicine, particularly in Iran and India, it is used to treat ailments such as colds, fever, and digestive issues. Its high vitamin C content aids in boosting immunity.

Comparison: Sweet Lemon vs. True Lemon


Feature	Sweet Lemon (Mosambi)	True Lemon (Citrus limon)
Acidity	Low acidity, mild flavor.	High acidity, sour taste.
Scientific Name	Citrus limetta.	Citrus × limon.
Common Appearance	Small, round, and greenish-yellow.	Oval or elongated with a nipple-like protrusion, bright yellow.
Flavor	Sweet, with a hint of mild lime essence. Juice turns bitter on exposure to air.	Distinctly sour and zesty.
Primary Use	Popular for juice and refreshing drinks.	Used for flavoring, zest, marinades, and sour drinks.
Key Nutrients	High in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and electrolytes.	Rich in Vitamin C, flavonoids, and antioxidants.

Conclusion: A Misnomer with Many Identities

The fruit known as a sweet lemon is a vibrant and unique citrus that defies its common name. With a distinctly low-acid profile, it offers a sweet and refreshing taste that has made it a popular beverage base in many cultures. The range of names it goes by, from mosambi in India to limu shirin in Iran, speaks to its wide geographical cultivation and cultural significance. While genetically different from the true lemon, its mild and hydrating properties make it a valuable and tasty addition to any diet. For further reading on the chemical composition and properties of Citrus limon, consult this comprehensive review: Citrus limon (Lemon) Phenomenon—A Review of the ... (nih.gov).

Frequently Asked Questions

The scientific name for a sweet lemon is Citrus limetta. It is often confused with a true lemon, which is Citrus limon, but is a distinct species with a much milder, sweeter flavor.

Sweet lemon juice turns bitter quickly when exposed to air due to the presence of a compound called limonin. This happens much faster than with regular lemons, so it is recommended to drink the juice immediately after it is prepared.

In addition to sweet lime and sweet limetta, regional names include mosambi or mausambi in India, limu shirin in Iran, and mitha or meetha in parts of Pakistan.

No, because of its low acidity and mild sweetness, a sweet lemon is not a good substitute for a regular lemon when you need a tart flavor. It is better suited for beverages, desserts, and marinades where its unique sweetness is a benefit.

Yes, sweet lemons are packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. They can boost immunity, aid digestion, and keep you hydrated, making them a beneficial addition to your diet.

No, they are different citrus species. A sweet lemon, Citrus limetta, is a cross between a citron and a bitter orange, giving it a milder, less acidic profile than a sweet orange (Citrus sinensis).

A ripe sweet lemon will have a lustrous, greenish-yellow sheen and feel heavy for its size. You can also gently scratch the surface; if the oils release, it is likely ripe. An underripe fruit will feel lighter and harder with a tart flesh.