How do Meyer lemons differ from regular lemons ?

Meyer lemons aren’t “true” lemons. Named after Frank N. Meyer (who worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture), they’re a natural hybrid of a lemon and a mandarin orange. In 1908, Frank brought these lemons to the U.S. from China, where they’ve been grown for centuries. Their color ranges from deep yellow to yellow-orange. Meyer lemons have a rounder shape and a smoother, thinner skin than regular lemons and they don’t have the same level of acidity or tartness, either. In fact, Meyer lemons are said to have an almost sweet taste that’s closer to a mandarin orange than a lemon. It’s also why they’re especially prized in dessert recipes, where they can easily replace regular lemons, unless you’re seeking a bolder, more acidic flavor. The cherished fruit’s season runs from late fall through early spring.