Kumquat

Profile

Family

Rutaceae

Habit

Shrub

Height

3 m

Spread

2 m

Growth

slow

Lifespan

50 years

First yield

after 3 years

Hardiness

zone 9–12

Shade tolerance

full sun

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam

Soil moisture

dry – very moist

pH

5.5 – 6.5

Flowering & harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Other uses: Use in agroforestry: Kumquats can serve as hedges or ornamental plants. They are beneficial in permaculture systems by attracting pollinators and bearing fruit. 1. Nectar - Nectar-rich flowers: Yes - Kumquat flowers produce nectar and pollen, attracting pollinators like bees. 2. Wildlife - Food (fruits, seeds, leaf litter, shelter, nesting site, roosting site): Yes - Kumquat fruits are consumed by birds and mammals. The dense foliage provides good shelter, offering refuge to small animals or birds and limited nesting opportunities for small birds. 3. Protection for invertebrates (overwintering sites, leaf litter, ground cover): Yes - The tree can provide protection for some invertebrates, while its leaf litter offers overwintering sites for insects. 4. Pest confuser (scent): Yes - The strong citrus scent of Kumquat leaves and fruits can naturally deter certain pests, making it a useful pest confuser in the garden.

Notable

Besonderheiten: klimatisch weit kompatibelste Zitrus-Frucht in Jahresø von 12-40°C & Jahresniederschlag von 700-4000mm tolerant; stellen ihr Wachstum bei <13°C ein; junge Triebe sterben bei 0°C die Pflanze manchmal erst ab -15°C; Je wärmer je süßer; Es gibt Hybride mit anderen Zitrusarten für weitere Klimaanpassung, sowie dornen- & kernlose; Auch als Fortunella (Gattung) zugeordnet;

Origin & habitat

Rocky slopes along highways

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