Round kumquat (Fortunella japonica)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Time to harvest
- 210–365 days
- Frost limit
- −6.7 °C
Cultivation
Prefers a moderately heavy loam with a generous amount of compost and sand added and a very sunny position. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, when dormant it tolerates temperatures down to about -5°c. 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]. Kumquats are widely cultivated in China for their edible fruit, there are many named varieties.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a warm airy position in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and grow them on in a greenhouse for at least their first two winters. Plant out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts and give some winter protection from the cold for a year or two.
Edible uses
Fruit - usually cooked and used in jellies, preserves etc.
Medicinal uses
The plant is antiphlogistic, antivinous, carminative, deodorant, stimulant.
Material uses
The fresh leaves and young twigs yield 0.21% essential oil that might be suitable for perfumery.
Habitat
Not known in a truly wild situation.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Scientific synonyms Citrus japonica