Calamondin

× Citrofortunella microcarpa

Mandarin × kumquat hybrid producing prolific clusters of small acidic orange fruit. Excellent ornamental container plant; popular across Southeast Asia for cooking.

Hardiness ratings

Calamondin hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 8–11 −12.2 °C to 10 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H4 −10 °C to −5 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 8–9 −7 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 4–7 0 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone

About Calamondin

The calamondin is a naturally occurring citrus hybrid, generally understood to be a cross between a mandarin and a kumquat, and it behaves like both parents: the fruit is small and intensely sour, but the skin is thin and sweet, so it is often eaten whole rather than juiced. It is among the most ornamental of the citrus, fruiting heavily and almost continuously, and it is more tolerant of container growing and indoor conditions than most. In the Philippines, where it is widely grown, it is a staple souring agent in cooking.

Growing notes

  • Among the most cold-tolerant of edible citrus
  • Container-friendly and decorative; fruit hangs on the plant for months

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Calamondin against your zones

Reference

Calamondin on Wikipedia