Citrange (Citroncirus webberi)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −17.8 °C

Cultivation

Prefers a moderately heavy loam with a generous amount of compost and sand added and a very sunny position. Reasonably cold resistant, dormant plants can tolerate temperatures down to about -10°c, especially if they are grafted onto a Poncirus trifoliata rootstock. The young growth in spring, even on mature plants, is frost-tender and so it is best to grow the plants in a position sheltered from the early morning sun[K]. A group of hybrids of garden origin, Poncirus trifoliata x Citrus sinensis. 'Morton' has very juicy fruits and is cold resistant.

Propagation

The following notes are based on Citrus species. They are probably applicable here as well, even though this is a bi-generic hybrid, since any seed might be produced polyembrionically. The seed is best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it ripe after thoroughly rinsing it. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least three growing seasons before trying them outdoors. Plant them out in the summer and give them some protection from the cold for their first few winters outdoors. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Layering in October.

Edible uses

The acid fruit can be used for drinks and marmalade.

Material uses

This species can be used as a rootstock for the sweet orange, conferring a greater tolerance to cold weather.

Habitat

Not known in the wild.

Native range

A bi-generic hybrid, Citrus sinensis x Poncirus trifoliata.