Calamondin Bush

Calamondin is an evergreen citrus grown for its fragrant flowers and small, orange fruit. Its strongly acidic pulp and fragrant peel are useful in drinks and cooking, while the compact shrub-like tree also makes an ornamental container plant. ## Flowers and fruit The [North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/citrus-x-microcarpa/common-name/calamondin/) describes calamondin as a dense, erect evergreen tree or large shrub with fragrant white flowers and small fruit that ripens from green to orange. The same profile notes that the fruit is acidic, used in drinks and food flavoring, and that the plant can flower repeatedly while fruit is present. Sources use different botanical names for calamondin, including *Citrus mitis* and *Citrus × microcarpa*; the catalog’s current name is retained. ## Growing site Grow it in full sun and fertile, moist, well-drained soil. In colder regions, a container makes it easier to move the plant indoors for winter. The [University of Minnesota Extension indoor citrus guide](https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/growing-citrus-indoors) includes calamondin among citrus suitable for indoor growing and recommends direct sunlight and an organic potting mix. ## Maintenance Water when the surface of the potting mix begins to dry, and let excess water drain completely. Wash leaves periodically and check for scale, mites and whiteflies, especially when the plant is indoors. Remove only damaged or crowded growth, and use the fruit in drinks or as a tart flavoring.