Hardy Orange Tree 'Flying Dragon'

‘Flying Dragon’ is a named form of trifoliate orange, valued for contorted branches and prominent curved thorns. North Carolina Extension’s [exact cultivar profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/citrus-trifoliata-flying-dragon/) describes a dense, deciduous shrub or small tree with white, fragrant spring flowers and very sour fruit. ## Form and uses North Carolina Extension lists a height range of 6–20 feet and a spread of 16–20 feet. Its sharp, arching spines make placement beside paths and play areas unsuitable, so allow generous lateral clearance. The fruit is too sour to eat raw but can be cooked into juice, jam, or jelly. ## Siting Grow in sun to partial shade in average, well-drained soil. The selection is hardy in USDA zones 5a–9b. It can be used as an impenetrable hedge or grown in a container to limit reseeding and contain its spread. ## Maintenance Allow room for the mature spread and avoid routine handling because of the large thorns. Remove unwanted seedlings and suckers, and prune carefully with protective clothing when access or shape requires it.