Calamondin Orange

Calamondin Orange (Citrus mitis)

Calamondin Orange is a compact, ornamental citrus prized for glossy evergreen leaves, fragrant white blossoms, and abundant small orange fruits that ripen over many months; ideal for sunny patios, bright interiors, and year-round container culture in cool climates.

Distinctive Features

Clusters of intensely fragrant flowers are followed by golf ball-size fruit that color from green to deep orange and hold on the plant for weeks; the tart, edible fruit and tidy, naturally branching habit provide both culinary value and decorative appeal.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun outdoors or 6 to 8 hours of bright, direct light indoors; supplement with grow lights in winter if needed.
• Soil: Fast-draining citrus or cactus mix enriched with organic matter; avoid heavy garden soils.
• Water: Water when the top 1 in of mix is dry; never leave roots waterlogged.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 outdoors; grow in containers and overwinter indoors in colder zones.
• Mature Size: Typically 3 to 6 ft in containers, 6 to 10 ft in-ground in frost-free areas.
• Bloom Time: Intermittent year-round under good light, with heaviest bloom in spring.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic, about 5.5 to 6.5.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Fragrant blossoms and bright fruit create a living accent for entries and patios.
• Container Gardening: Compact root system thrives in tubs or planters with drainage.
• Edible Ornamental: Tart fruit for marmalade, drinks, and savory dishes.
• Indoor Winter Display: Overwinters attractively in a sunny window or sunroom.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply water until excess drains, then allow the top inch to dry; reduce frequency in low light.
• Pruning: Lightly shape after harvest or late winter; remove suckers and weak inward shoots.
• Fertilizing: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a citrus fertilizer containing micronutrients like iron and magnesium; every 6 to 8 weeks in fall and winter.
• Mulching: Top with 1 to 2 in of fine bark, keeping mulch a few inches from the trunk flare.
• Notes: Self-fertile; hand-shake branches to improve fruit set indoors; protect from frost, and monitor for scale, spider mites, and aphids.

Why Choose Calamondin Orange?

• Continuous Display: Flowers and fruits can appear together for long-season interest.
• Compact Habit: Perfect scale for patios, balconies, and bright interiors.
• Culinary Versatility: Zesty fruit elevates drinks, desserts, and sauces.
• Fragrant Bloom: Citrus perfume enhances outdoor rooms and indoor spaces.

Grow in a sunny spot with sharp drainage and regular feeding to enjoy year-round fragrance and colorful, usable fruit.