This strange-looking fruit is as little-known as it is intriguing. This "fingered" fruit from the citrus family originated in Southeast Asia and is unique for looking like a hand. The number of "digits" varies from one fruit to another.

It is closely related to the lemon and can measure up to 25 cm long and weigh 4 kg. The green or yellowish flesh is sour and not very juicy, but its scent is mild and pleasant.

It is a mythical fruit, traditionally offered to the Buddha during religious ceremonies and given as a token of good luck at Chinese New Year. It is said that the French king Louis XIV was so fond of its fragrance that he had some planted in the Orangerie.

Grown mostly in Corsica, Morocco and Crete where the climate is suitable, the Buddha's hand grows on a bush and is cultivated in the spring.