Citrus Trees

Aerin Lauder

 

Calamondin citrus trees pictured above are cold hardy citrus (hardy to 20 degrees F.) that are a cross between a mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata, tangerine, or Satsuma) and a kumquat (Fortunella margarita). Calamondin citrus trees were introduced from China to the U.S. around 1900. Used in the United States primarily for ornamental purposes and often as a bonsai specimen, Calamondin trees are cultivated throughout southern Asia and Malaysia, India, and the Philippines for their citrus juice. Since the 1960’s, potted calamondin citrus trees have been shipped from southern Florida to other areas of North America for use as houseplants; Israel does much the same thing for the European market.

Calamondin trees are small, bushy evergreens that can attain heights of 10-20 feet high, but are usually much shorter in stature. Small spines are apparent on the branches of growing calamondin trees, which bear fabulous orange-scented blossoms that become small orange fruit (1 inch in diameter resembling a tangerine.) The segmented fruit is seedless and extremely acidic. 

Here is a pair at the front entrance of Danielle Rollins' Palm Beach home.

Danielle Rollins

They can be grown indoors with good sunlight or outdoors in zones 8 - 11.

My front entrance has blue and white tiles and a pair of vintage blue and white Chinese garden stools. Since it is completely protected and therefore does not get direct sunlight, I decided to find a pair of faux ones that will go in a pair of blue and white Chinese fish bowls flanking the double French doors.

I found these and just ordered them and should have them later this week.

48" Real Touch Orange Tree

I will post pictures when I get the pair. These are meant for indoors, but will be completely protected in my covered entrance. They would also be great in a sunroom, porch, entryway, breakfast room, and so many other spots in the home.