Citrus japonica Common name: Kumquat, Cumquat	Indicates sun requirement      Full sun      Half sun      Semi-shade      Shade   Indicates Water requirement         High water requirement.     Water every 1-2 days.          Medium water requirement.     Water every 3-7 days.          Low water requirement.     Water every 7-14 days.
Description A compact, evergreen small shrub, about 1.8m (6ft) high and a spread of approx half of its height, sometimes thorny. Leaves are oval-shaped up to 8cm (3in) long. Fragrant white flowers in spring produce round to oval fruit about 2.5cm (1in) in diameter, resembling miniature oranges. They make perfect container plants for small gardens or sunny patios as an ornamental shrub. The edible fruit (apart from being decorative) are used for preserves or eating raw. 'Variegata' Rounded green and cream leaves and round variegated skin fruit. 'Nagami' Small green leaves and oval bright orange fruit. The fruit taste is a unique blend of tart and sweet. While the fruit flesh has the typical acid quality of citrus fruit, it's peel tastes sweet, changing an initial sour impression into a pleasantly sweet one!
Growing Frost tender, kumquats require an open position in full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil. In frost-prone areas grow in containers and overwinter in a conservatory or greenhouse. Fertilising Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring and water adequately during the growing season, especially when the fruits are forming. Pruning Prune only to remove dead, diseased and crossing wood. Propagation Propagate species from seed or cuttings and varieties by budding onto rootstock in autumn or spring. (see Citrus for more growing information)