Lemdina

The lemdina (pl: lemdinë), also known as the Elvish lemon, sprite-fruit, fey-lime, or goblin lime, is a yellowish-green citrus fruit with a diameter of 0.5-0.75 inches.

Properties

Material Characteristics

The fruit resembles a small egg, with a slight taper towards the stem end. Its skin is a vivid, slightly iridescent shade of chartreuse, and quite difficult to pierce despite its thinness. The interior of the fruit is a warmer golden-yellow shade than the skin and contains a surprising amount of juice for its size (around 1.5 oz per fruit, or 80-90% of the fruit's weight).

Physical & Chemical Properties

The lemdina is a close relative of the lemon and the key lime, but is slightly more acidic than either fruit, with a higher sugar content and a more floral aroma. It is extremely high in Vitamin C.

Compounds

The juice of the lemdina can be distilled into a sweet golden syrup by boiling for long periods of time. Much of the vitamin content of the juice is lost in this process, but the syrup is both a flavorful ingredient in cooking and an effective binding agent for potions, especially those dealing with enchantment and illusion magic.

Geology & Geography

It was first cultivated in eastern Malakar and thrives in similarly tropical and subtropical climates.

Life & Expiration

Lemdinë, once picked, have a shelf life of 3-6 weeks. Lemdina juice starts to lose its potency after 12-24 hours, so it is best consumed fresh or distilled into syrup immediately.

History & Usage

Everyday use

In cooking, lemdina is valued for its acidity and sweetness.  Lemdina juice and lemdina syrup are common ingredients in cocktails, especially rum-based drinks. This comes from the old sailing practice of mixing lemdina juice with rum rations to prevent scurvy on the open seas.

Cultural Significance and Usage

The lemdina is featured on the crest of many of the noble families of Malakar as a symbol of good fortune and hospitality. It is an iconic ingredient in the cuisines of Urbana al-Sona and Urbana al-Svara, particularly in pickles and relishes or in desserts such as sorbets and pies.

Byproducts & Sideproducts

Fishermen often use lemdina skin in crafting lures, as its iridescence attracts fish and its toughness keeps it attached to the line well.

by Art by author.

Type

Biomaterial

Odor

pungent citrus with floral undertones

Taste

strong sweet-and-sour flavor

Color

chartreuse skin, golden yellow flesh

Related Species

• Lemden tree