Yuzu Tree

Yuzu (Citrus junos) is an evergreen citrus grown for its aromatic rind and tart juice in East Asian cooking. The thorny tree bears lumpy yellow-orange fruit in fall, though fruit is often used while still green. UCR notes several proposed origins and parentage for yuzu, so its hybrid history remains uncertain. ## Fruit and form The [UCR Citrus Variety Collection](https://citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc1216) describes yuzu as an acid citrus used in food preparation and notes green fruit at Riverside in September and October. Fruit is valued for fragrant zest and juice rather than usually being eaten fresh. ## Siting and care Plant in a sunny, well-drained place. [Four Winds Growers](https://www.fourwindsgrowers.com/products/yuzu-citrus-tree) recommends at least eight hours of sun and lists Zones 8–11 for in-ground growing; it advises protecting trees below 20°F. In Zones 4–7, grow it in a pot and move it indoors for winter. Its semi-dwarf trees are listed at 10–15 feet in the ground and 6–8 feet in pots. Water deeply, letting the soil surface dry between waterings. ## Maintenance Prune in early spring to maintain shape and remove dead growth. Protect container trees from cold and keep them near a bright window indoors. [UC IPM](https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/cultural-tips-for-growing-citrus/) provides general citrus watering and site-care guidance.