Citrus fruit

A family of related fruiting trees and shrubs which produce hesperidium (fruits) containing citric acid and often ascorbic acid (vitamin C).

Uses

Primary

• Excellent source of nutritive vitamin C
• Key feedstock for citric acid
• Rinds often contain chemically useful aromatic compounds

Secondary

• growth medium for penicillium chrysogenum

Natural Occurrence

Angiosperms / Eudicots / Rosids / Sapindales / Rutaceae / Citrus / ...

Common

Lemon, Lime, Key lime, Orange

Ancestral

Citron, Pomelo, Mandarin, Papeda

Cultivation

Although Citrus is a subtropical genus, northern gardeners can grow lemons, oranges, and other citrus trees in containers to enjoy fresh citrus fruit. Citrus trees are self-fertile, so only one tree is needed for fruit production. Generally the trees are between 3 and 6 years old before they fruit.

Planting

Citrus trees should be planted in a sunny and wind-protected area in well-drained soil. If the soil is not well-drained, plant the trees on a slight mound to prevent waterlogging. Standard-size citrus trees should be spaced 3-6m apart and dwarf citrus trees should be set 2-3m feet apart.

Care

A few weeks after planting, and for the first few years (before bearing age), fertilize with equal amounts of N, P, and K.