🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Used as a thorny, impenetrable hedgerow or living fence. The fruit is edible, though extremely sour and seedy, and can be used to make marmalade, candied peel, or juice flavoring. It is also used as a rootstock for more desirable citrus varieties, conferring cold hardiness. The plant attracts pollinators when flowering.
Permapeople description
Citroncirus is a hybrid between Citrus and Poncirus.
Botanical description
Citroncirus is a monotypic genus comprising only one species, Citroncirus trifoliata (syn. Poncirus trifoliata). It is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing to 15-25 feet tall with a rounded crown. The branches are armed with stout spines, 1-2 inches long. The leaves are trifoliate (three leaflets), each leaflet 1-2 inches long. The flowers are white, 1-2 inches in diameter, and strongly scented. The fruit is a small, orange-like hesperidium, 1-2 inches in diameter, with a thick, downy rind and numerous seeds. The fruit is extremely sour and bitter, though it is technically edible when cooked.
Companion planting
Generally compatible with other plants due to its hedgerow use. May compete with understory plants for resources. Grafting with other citrus is a common companion planting strategy.
Propagation methods
Seed (requires stratification), root cuttings, grafting.
History and traditions
Native to northern China and Korea. It has been cultivated for centuries in Asia for its medicinal properties and as an ornamental plant. It was introduced to Europe and North America in the 19th century. In traditional Chinese medicine, the fruit and roots have been used to treat digestive issues and skin conditions.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Spring (April-May). Fruiting: Autumn (September-October). Seed Collection: Autumn. Planting: Spring or Autumn. Pruning: Late Winter/Early Spring.