Lemon vs. Lime

Both citrus fruits are small and oblong in shape with a thick peel. The fruit is sour and contains seeds. Both lemons and limes are a good source of vitamin C. Because they are so sour, they are usually used sparingly along with other foods instead of eaten alone. Limes are slightly smaller than lemons.

A lemon is a sour yellow citrus fruit. They are edible. Lemon juice or the zest of a lemon peel can be used in recipes and in lemonade. Lemons are also used in procuring pectin, making furniture polish, and creating cosmetics. They grow on small, thorny trees, especially in California and Italy.

A lime is a sour green citrus fruit. They are edible. Lime juice is used in recipes and in limeade. A slice of lime can also be used as a garnish. Limes grow on small, thorny trees.