Calamondin orange, Panama orange
Citrofortunella microcarpa x

Family: Rutaceae

What it is like

Probably a natural hybrid of Citrus reticulata and Fortunella sp. A small citrus tree. It is 2-8 m tall. It is slightly thorny. The leaves are smaller than most citrus. They are 4-7 cm long. They are evergreen and alternate. They are broadly oval and dark green and glossy on the upper surface and yellowish-green underneath. The flowers have five oval and pure white petals. They are 2.5 cm across. The flowers occur singly or on small clusters or 2-3 in the axils of leaves near the ends of stems. The fruit resemble a tangerine. They are about 4 cm across. Fruit are sweet, juicy and acidic. There are 6-10 segments and the pulp is orange. They can be seedless or have small, greenish, oval and pointed seeds.

There are 20 Citrus species. Several hybrids have been formed.

Where it is found

It grows in tropical places. It is best grown in full sun but can tolerate light shade. They can tolerate some salty and seaside conditions. They have little tolerance of frost. They can grow on a range of soils. Plants need adequate fertility and sometimes need micronutrients. At MARDI.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Brazil, China (country/location of origin), Colombia, Hawaii, Malaysia, North America, Pacific, Philippines, SE Asia, South America, USA

How it is used for food

The fruit can be eaten raw. They are acid. They are pickled, preserved and used in sauces, chutneys, and flavouring. They are also used for drinks and jellies. The whole fruit fried in coconut oil with various seasonings are eaten in curries. The preserved peel is used to flavour other foods.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed. Seeds can produce 3-5 seedlings. Often seedlings produce true to type. Seeds are washed and usually germinate in 21 days. Cuttings can be used. These root easily. Plants need to be 3-6 m apart.

Plants from cuttings produce fruit is 2 years. Fruit take 8-12 months to mature. Fruit can be produced year round in warmer climates. Fruit should be picked when fully ripe.

Its other names

Local names

Golden lime, Kalamansi, Musk lime, Scarlet lime

Synonyms

Citrus mitis Blanco;