A neat, ornamental citrus smothered in small oval fruit eaten whole, sweet rind and all — superb for marmalade and candying. Tough, cold-hardy and made for a decorative pot.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Cumquat
Botanically, Citrus japonica is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rutaceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Cumquat
Cumquat suits subtropical, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Cumquat does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Cumquat is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Cumquat in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Cumquat in the garden
Cumquat earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Cumquat with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Cumquat
Plant Sale lists Cumquat as potted plants, advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.