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Calamondin

Citrofortunella microcarpa

Identified By Marcs

The calamondin is a popular citrus hybrid, widely cultivated for its small, edible, acid fruits that are used to flavor foods and beverages. It is an attractive evergreen shrub or small tree, frequently grown in containers indoors or on patios. The plant features glossy dark green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and abundant bright orange fruits that resemble tiny mandarins. It thrives in warm climates and bright sunny locations, making it a versatile ornamental and culinary addition to gardens and homes worldwide.

Also known as: Calamansi Philippine Lime Golden Lime Acid Orange

Toxicity & Safety

Is Calamondin toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

Calamondin plants contain essential oils and psoralens that can be toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms of poisoning typically include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and dermatitis upon contact. The fruit peels and plant sap are particularly irritating. Keep this plant well out of reach of household pets to prevent any accidental ingestion or skin irritation issues.

Is Calamondin toxic to humans?

No, Calamondin is generally safe for humans.

Is Calamondin safe during pregnancy?

Generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 150 - 500 cm
Width 100 - 300 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 10°C - 35°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 8 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 5.5 - 6.5
Watering Interval 7 - 14 days
Humidity 50.00% - 80.00%
USDA Zone 9a - 11b

Tropical and Subtropical Regions

Climate: Thrives in warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates with plenty of direct sunlight and moderate rainfall.

Soils: Loam Sandy Loam Well-drained potting mix
Annual Rainfall: 1000 - 2500 mm

Native Regions

China (CN – Asia)
Southeast Asia (ID – Asia)
Philippines

How to Care for Calamondin

How should I handle watering your calamondin?

Water your calamondin deeply whenever the top few centimeters of soil feel dry to the touch. Ensure the pot or planting site has excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can easily cause root rot. Reduce watering slightly during the cooler winter months when growth slows down significantly.

How should I handle sunlight requirements?

Provide your calamondin with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window where it can receive maximum light exposure. Insufficient sunlight will result in poor flowering, reduced fruit production, and leggy, weak branch growth.

How should I handle soil and fertilization?

Plant in a rich, well-draining potting mix with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Feed the plant regularly during the active growing season of spring and summer using a balanced citrus fertilizer formulated with essential micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and zinc to promote healthy foliage and abundant fruit set.

How to Propagate Calamondin

How to propagate Calamondin by grafting?

Grafting is the most reliable and common method for propagating calamondin trees to ensure true-to-type fruit production and robust root systems. Select a healthy rootstock, such as rough lemon or sour orange, and use the scion wood from a mature, high-yielding calamondin tree. Make clean matching cuts on both the rootstock and scion, join them securely together using grafting tape, and keep the grafted plant in a humid, warm environment until the union heals and new growth emerges successfully.

Common Diseases & Pests of Calamondin

What is Citrus Canker and how is it treated?

Bacterial
Symptoms:

Citrus canker causes raised, brown, corky lesions surrounded by a yellow halo on the leaves, stems, and fruits. Severe infections can lead to premature leaf drop, twig dieback, and heavily blemished fruits that are unappealing for culinary use.

Treatment:

Prune and destroy heavily infected branches to reduce the spread of bacteria. Apply copper-based bactericides during flush periods of new growth to protect healthy tissues from becoming infected during wet weather conditions.

Prevention:

Avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry, purchase certified disease-free nursery stock, and sterilize pruning tools thoroughly between cuts to prevent transferring the bacteria from plant to plant.

Properties & Benefits of Calamondin

Bears Fruit Aromatic Plant

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of rich source of vitamin c in Calamondin?

Calamondin fruits are exceptionally high in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps support a healthy immune system, promotes collagen production for glowing skin, and protects cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Incorporating the juice into your daily diet helps improve iron absorption and enhances overall vitality and wellness.

Precautions: Due to its high acidity, excessive consumption may cause dental enamel erosion or acid reflux in sensitive individuals.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Vitamin C rich in 35 mg / 100g
Calcium moderate 40 mg / 100g

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