This is a type of citrus bearing small edible fruits that taste like a cross between a lime and a grapefruit with a hint of conifer. It is a rich source of folate, iron and zinc, and also contains magnesium and calcium. Because the lemon aspen is a rainforest species, the fruit may sometimes be referred to as ‘rainforest lemon’. This tree is native to Far North Queensland, but will grow as far south as Sydney and even in South Australia.
A tart, lemon taste with a little spice and eucalyptus flavour. This makes a wonderful addition to anything needing a citrus kick, sweets, broths, sauces, teas and cocktails.
◎ Common Name: Lemon Aspen or Rainforest Lemon
◎ Scientific or Latin Name: Acronychia acidula
◎ Comparison: Lemony apple
◎ Seasonality: All year frozen
◎ Region: Tropical QLD
◎ Taste Profile: A fresh citrus aroma and a strong, acidic lemon flavour with notes of spice and eucalyptus.
◎ Types: There are two different, distinct species referred to as “lemon aspen”. Botanically they are classified as Acronychia acidula, or “True” Lemon Aspen or Pigeon Berry, and Acronychia oblongifolia, also referred to as Southern Lemon Aspen or White Aspen.
We sell our Lemon Aspen as a freeze-dried powder.
Benefits
- Lemon Aspen fruit are high in calcium, potassium, iron and magnesium.
- They also contain high levels of phosphorus, folate and zinc.
- Lemon Aspen fruits contain higher levels of antioxidants than blueberries.
Traditional Aboriginal Food and Uses
Lemon Aspen fruit have been used by the Aborigines for thousands of years for both medicinal and culinary purposes.
It was regularly consumed by Indigenous communities in north eastern Queensland, and there is some continuing involvement in its cultivation in far north Queensland.
Western & Modern
Lemon Aspen can be supplied to consumers as fresh fruit but due to its relatively short season it is more commonly available to the market as juice and whole frozen fruit. It is also dried and ground into a spice that is used in a wide variety of dishes, including baked goods.
Lemon Aspen is used in a similar way to produce cordials and syrups, juices, mineral water, fruit wine and even glazed fruit and confectionary. Very popular in the food industry, the fruit pulp and juice is also used to make a large range of sweet and savoury dishes as well as sauces, dressings, preserves, chutneys and relishes, and mayonnaise.
Extracts of the fruit can be used in skin care, anti-aging cosmetics, skin repair, hair care and sunscreen. As with numerous native fruits, lemon aspen has superior antioxidant capacity compared to blueberry; it is rich in folate, iron and zinc (compared with some other native fruits) and it contains magnesium and calcium.
Medicinal
Rich in antioxidants, lemon aspen provides important daily vitamins and minerals essential for the body in the following ways:
- Boosts the human immune system
- Reduces the risk of flu and common cold
- Protects the skin from damaging UV rays
- Can reduce and repair the visible signs of ageing
- Promotes wound healing
- Amplifies the synthesis of collagen
- Reduces free radicals
Nutritional Information
| NUTRIENT |
QUANTITY PER 100g |
|
Energy
|
120kj |
|
Protein
|
2.0g |
|
Fat - Total
|
0.9g |
|
- Saturated
|
0.0g |
|
Carbohydrates - Total
|
1.9g |
|
- Sugars
|
1.9g |
|
Sodium
|
45mg |
◎
Warndu Products featuring Lemon Aspen
Try our Lemon Aspen as a freeze-dried powder, ready to use as a spice in your pantry.
Note: The term 'Bush Tucker' and 'Bush Food' are not Warndu's preferred terms for Australian Native Ingredients or Australian Botanicals.
Images: © Luisa Brimble
