Common Name:
calamondin lime
Family Name:
Rutaceae
Botanical Name:
Citrofortunella mitis
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
The C. mitis tree has upright branches with very few thorns and can grow up to 10 feet high. Its 3-inch evergreen leaves are broadly oval and pale green. It has small white flowers. The calamondin limes are are round and 4.5 cm wide with a very aromatic orange-red peel. They are tender, thin, easily removable, and edible.
Compound:
Cit mit
Geographic Origin:
East Asia
Ecozone Origin:
Palearctic
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
The calamondin lime is native citrus plant to China. It is thought to have been taken in early times to Indonesia and the Philippines. It was introduced to Central America in the late 18th century and United States in the early 19th century.
Cultivation Notes:
Calamondin limes are moderately drought-tolerant. Calamondins are harvested by clipping the stems as they become fully colored throughout the year. It is a hybrid plant between Citrus reticulata and citrus japonica.
Ethnobotany:
Calamondin limes are eaten whole, preserved, juiced, and pickled. Digestion of the seed can be unhealthy and induce vomiting in animals. The juice can be used as a stain remover and as a shampoo.
Height:
6 - 10 feet
Width:
Growth Rate:
Grow Season:
Flower Season:
Color:
White
Function:
Spread:
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Water Use:
Citations:
- Calamondin: The miniature orange . (2012, August 22). Retrieved from http://oliodigest.com/calamondin
- Calamondin- the most versatile citrus . (2012). Retrieved from http://aggiehorticulture.tamu.edu/patiocitrus/calamondin.html
- Calamondin lime . (2012). Retrieved from http://www.specialtyproduce.com/produce/Calamondin_Li e_684.php
- Morton, J. (2012, December 5th). Calamondin. Retrieved from http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/calamondin.ht
