This exciting new fruit is the combination of a Key lime (Citrus aurantifolia) and a Kumquat (citrus japonica). Unlike lemons and limes, its skin is thin and you eat the entire thing, peel and all. The fruit are small and juicy with a sweet tangy flavour that tastes amazing on its own, in drinks or in marmalades. You’ll know they’re ripe when they’re plump and their rind has gone bright yellow. If you pick them too soon they may taste very sour. Even if you don’t eat them, they make for cute decorations on your tree.
Another advantage of this small compact tree is that it has deliciously perfumed flowers and fruits throughout the year from spring to summer, and it’s self pollinating. That doesn’t mean that insects can’t pollinate the flowers, and rest assured they’ll still be attracted to the scented blossom.
Like all citrus trees, the Limequat needs a lot of sun, enough water to keep its soil consistently moist, and regular feeding. This is a tough plant and can withstand colder temperatures than the lemon or lime. If you do keep it outside over summer, keep it sheltered from strong winds and bring it inside over winter. Temperatures below about seven degrees can cause serious damage.
As it grows you may want to prune it to help it keep its shape. It’s best to do this after you’ve picked off any fruit, so it can put its energy into new growth rather than the fruit. Depending on the time of year, your tree may arrive without fruit, but if you give it enough warmth and sun it should flower and fruit from spring.
If you choose to plant your citrus tree out into a decorative pot, or when it comes time to repot it - every 2 to 3 years - be sure to use a loam based compost like John Innes No.3, which will have the perfect balance of drainage and moisture retentive goodies like sand and clay.
Did you know?
If you want a clue as to where this plant originated, look no further than its name. It was bred by Walter T. Swingle in Florida.
Regular watering
Bright light
Feeding
