Kumquat
Citrus japonica
Also listed as Fortunella hindsii, Fortunella japonica
Also known as Nagami Kumquat, Marumi Kumquat, Meiwa Kumquat
Climate Match for your location
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A compact evergreen shrub bearing small, sweet-tart orange fruits about the size of a grape that can be eaten whole, skin and all. Fragrant white flowers appear in spring followed by colorful fruit that ripens in fall and winter.
Why grow it
Kumquat differs from other citrus in its smaller stature and edibility of the whole fruit, including the sweet rind, making it useful where space is limited or where seedless, skin-on fruit is desired. The plant tolerates cooler temperatures than many citrus species and produces ornamental value through fragrant flowers and persistent winter fruit. It yields reliably in USDA zones 8-11 with standard citrus care (well-draining soil, full sun, regular water during growth).
Watch out for
The plant benefits from consistent moisture during fruiting but is sensitive to waterlogging, which can cause root rot in poorly draining soils. Flowering and fruit set may be delayed or reduced if the plant experiences significant cold stress in marginal climates, even though it is more cold-hardy than standard oranges or lemons.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rutaceae
Native Range
southern China, Japan
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A compact evergreen shrub bearing small, sweet-tart orange fruits about the size of a grape that can be eaten whole, skin and all. Fragrant white flowers appear in spring followed by colorful fruit that ripens in fall and winter.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Kumquat grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Kumquat differs from other citrus in its smaller stature and edibility of the whole fruit, including the sweet rind, making it useful where space is limited or where seedless, skin-on fruit is desired. The plant tolerates cooler temperatures than many citrus species and produces ornamental value through fragrant flowers and persistent winter fruit. It yields reliably in USDA zones 8-11 with standard citrus care (well-draining soil, full sun, regular water during growth).
Watch out for
The plant benefits from consistent moisture during fruiting but is sensitive to waterlogging, which can cause root rot in poorly draining soils. Flowering and fruit set may be delayed or reduced if the plant experiences significant cold stress in marginal climates, even though it is more cold-hardy than standard oranges or lemons.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rutaceae
Native Range
southern China, Japan
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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