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
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.