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Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin' (calamondin)
At Heijnen Plants, we take pride in offering the delightful Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin', commonly known as the calamondin orange. A jewel among Citrus plants, this compact tree graces any space with its glossy green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and vibrant, edible fruits. Native to the Philippines, the Calamondin orange can bring a touch of tropical splendor to your conservatory or patio, thriving in a pot that allows it to be moved to suit the season. Whether adorned with blossoms or bearing its miniature fruit, the Calamondin orange is a charming addition to our curated selection of quality plants.
Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin' (calamondin)
The Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin', commonly referred to as calamondin or calamondin orange, is a delightful Citrus plant renowned for its ornamental appeal and fragrant, white blooms. Hailing from the Philippines, this compact tree is perfect for growing in pots, making it an ideal indoor or patio plant in regions where the climate is cooler.
Key Features
- As a member of the Citrus family, the calamondin orange is cherished for its year-round verdant foliage and aromatic white flowers, which blossom in the spring.
- This miniature Citrus tree is a prolific fruit-bearer, with small, round, orange fruits that provide a tangy flavor perfect for culinary use.
- It thrives in well-drained soil and requires a sunny location to ensure it grows healthily and produces an abundance of fruit.
- The calamondin orange is evergreen, maintaining its lush greenery throughout the seasons.
- Designed for solitary display, its miniature stature and abundant fruit make it a striking feature in any space.
Tips
- To care for your calamondin, water moderately to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during the growing season.
- While it is not drought-resistant, be careful not to over-water, as Citrus plants are sensitive to waterlogged conditions.
- Pruning is minimal for calamondin oranges; simply trim to shape or remove any dead or crossing branches to maintain plant health.
- Protect your plant during winter by bringing it indoors or providing adequate shelter, as it can only tolerate temperatures down to 1.7°C.
- Propagate the calamondin through semi-ripe cuttings or seed sowing to expand your Citrus collection or share with fellow garden enthusiasts.
Planting & care
We would like to provide some tips on how to plant and care for a Calamondin orange tree. By following these tips, you can be sure to enjoy your Calamondin orange tree for a long time.
Ideal placement of a Calamondin orange tree
For optimal growth and fruit production, Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin' requires a location that offers full sun exposure. This species thrives when it can bask in sunlight for the majority of the day, which is essential for the development of its signature vibrant orange fruit. Being native to a tropical climate, the plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and must be protected from frost, as it is only winter hardy to USDA zone 10a. It is recommended to place calamansi in a warm, sheltered spot or to grow it in a container that can be moved indoors during colder months.
Planting a Calamondin orange tree
When planting Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin', select a location that receives full sunlight to ensure a thriving growth and fruitful yield. The plant prefers a well-drained substrate, accommodating a variety of soil types. It is best to plant this mini stem tree in a pot, granting flexibility to move it indoors during colder months, as it is hardy to USDA zone 10a and can tolerate temperatures as low as 1.7°C. Water moderately to maintain consistent moisture, but be cautious not to overwater. With proper care, the white blossoms will develop, succeeded by the characteristic orange fruit in the autumn.
Pruning a Calamondin orange tree
Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin' is low-maintenance when it comes to pruning, often thriving with minimal intervention. If shaping is desired, trim sparingly to maintain the mini stem's natural form. Pruning should be done after fruiting but before the onset of the next flowering cycle to avoid disrupting budding. Lightly thin out any crowded branches to enhance air circulation and light penetration, which encourages healthy growth and fruit production. Always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts, minimizing stress to the plant.
Watering a Calamondin orange tree
The Citrus mitis 'Calamondin' requires moderate watering to thrive, particularly during its fruiting and flowering seasons. It is critical to ensure the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged, to support the development of its vibrant orange fruit. During the warmer months, the 'calamondin' tree may necessitate increased irrigation frequency to counteract the higher evaporation rates. Conversely, in winter, particularly within its hardiness range of USDA zone 10a, watering should be reduced. Always verify the topsoil dryness before the next watering to maintain optimal soil moisture levels.
Fertilising a Calamondin orange tree
To ensure a bountiful harvest and vigorous growth, it is essential to fertilise your calamansi tree appropriately. Use a balanced Citrus fertiliser that contains nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as trace minerals like magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca), which are crucial for the health of Citrus plants.
Apply the fertiliser every other month during the growing season, starting in early spring and continuing through summer. During the autumn and winter months, when growth naturally slows, reduce the frequency of fertilisation. Ensure that the soil is moist before applying the fertiliser to prevent root burn. This feeding schedule will support the plant's moderate water needs and promote a plentiful production of aromatic white flowers and vibrant orange fruits.
The characteristics of a Calamondin orange tree
The 'calamondin' orange tree is a delightful addition to any indoor space or patio, with its fragrant blossoms and vibrant, edible fruit. Not only does it serve as a charming ornamental, but it can also be used in culinary creations, adding a zesty flavor to dishes and drinks. Its compact size makes it ideal for container gardening, ensuring a touch of the tropics even in smaller spaces. Regular misting will keep the leaves glossy and enhance the overall vigor of the plant.
Calamondin orange tree: the ideal variety for you!
Discover the charm of Citrus × mitis 'Calamondin', a delightful plant that invites a touch of the Mediterranean into any space. With its glossy, evergreen leaves and abundant, fragrant flowers that give way to petite, ornamental fruits, this Citrus is a captivating addition to your home or garden.
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