Citrus japonica (F)
kumquat
A large spiny evergreen shrub with glossy lance-shaped leaves and axillary clusters of fragrant white flowers 1.2cm across in spring and summer, followed by globose orange fruits 3-4cm across
Synonyms
Citrus (_japonica_ × _margerita_)Citrus kinokuni
see moreCitrus madurensis
Fortunella margarita
Fortunella × crassifolia
Fortunella hindsii
Citrus × nobilis var. inermis
Fortunella japonica
Citrus kumquat
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | Orange | |
| Autumn | Green | Orange | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit harmful to skin with sunlight/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Citrus are typically evergreen shrubs or trees, frequently spiny, with simple, leathery, aromatic leaves, usually with winged stalks, and often fragrant white or pink-tinged flowers, followed by large, juicy fruits
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow outdoors in a moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered, frost-free area in full sun. Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost. Water sparingly in winter. Top dress in spring
Propagation
Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Edible fruit
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to citrus red spider mite and glasshouse red spider mite, soft scale and fluted scale, aphids, caterpillars and mealybugs under glass
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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