Clausena lansium
Chinese wampee
A fast-growing, tropical, evergreen shrub, or small tree, related to citrus, capable of growing up to 12m (40ft) high in its native habitat. The leaves have a pleasant scent of anise when bruised, but it is primarily grown for its edible pale-orange, egg-shaped fruits, which follow the springtime panicles of small white flowers, and are popular in southern China and Thailand for eating fresh similar to kumquats, for making jellies and for fruit drinks.
Synonyms
Clausena wampiClausena punctata Rehder & E.H. Wilson
Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Orange | ||
| Autumn | Green | Orange | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in an acidic to neutral, moisture-retentive, well drained compost and a position in full sun or partial shade, in a conservatory, greenhouse, or as a houseplant indoors in the UK
Propagation
Propate by seed, or by semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Edible fruit
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to red spider mite, scale insects and mealy bug
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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