Calamansi
Citrus microcarpa · Rutaceae
⚠️ La pulpe mûre est comestible. Feuilles, tiges, écorce et peau du fruit contiennent des huiles essentielles et psoralènes pouvant causer troubles digestifs ou irritation chez chiens et chats.
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around calamansi and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dark green and glossy
- Flowering
- Spring (March to May), fragrant white flowers
- Adult size
- 2.5 m in height
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Frost hardiness
- Frost-sensitive (tropical to subtropical climate)
- Origin
- Philippines
- Fruits
- Small acidic citrus fruits, 2-3 cm in diameter
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Grow in a pot or planter (150L minimum), rich soil with excellent drainage. Water regularly April-September, very sparingly October-March.
The common mistake
Frost and watering irregularities cause flowers and young fruits to drop.
The pro's trick
Move it to a bright conservatory or garage from October onwards if your zone drops below 2°C; minimal heating is enough.
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging it. During the growing season (spring-summer), water 2 to 3 times per week depending on temperature. Reduce watering in autumn-winter. Use soft, non-chalky water.
Light exposure
Place your calamondin in full sun, with a minimum of 6 hours per day. Bright light encourages abundant flowering and better fruit production. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can prevent sunscald.
Soil
Use rich, well-draining potting soil enriched with organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is ideal. Ensure good aeration by adding sand or perlite if necessary.
Fertilizing
Fertilize every 15 days in spring and summer with citrus fertilizer or balanced formula. Reduce frequency in autumn-winter. Adding magnesium and trace elements promotes good fruit production.
Pruning and shaping
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a harmonious shape and open up the center of the tree. Remove dead or crossing branches. Light pruning stimulates branching and improves fruiting.
Pests and diseases
Watch for scale insects and spider mites, particularly indoors. Low humidity favors these pests. Treat preventively with regular water spraying and improve ventilation. Powdery mildew can appear in overly dry conditions.
Did you know?
The calamondin, originating from the Philippines, is very popular throughout Southeast Asia where it has been cultivated for centuries. Its small acidic fruits, the size of a walnut, are traditionally used in local cuisine as a substitute for fresh lemon and in refreshing beverages. It's a lesser-known citrus in Europe, but appeals to those seeking exotic plants for its compact habit and generous productivity.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.