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Citrus (Citrus)
Citrus (genus Citrus) are a large group of tropical and warm-temperate flowering plants that are of tremendous culinary and commercial importance to humans. Citrus include some of the most popular fruits in the world, including oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and tangerines. They are thought to have been cultivated since at least 3,000 BCE - that's 5,000 years ago! In addition to being grown for their fruits, these plants are also grown as ornamentals or as nectar-providers for bees.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Key Facts About Citrus
Feedback
Attributes of Citrus
Planting Time
Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Plant Height
6 m
Spread
3 m
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
10 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Citrus
Distribution of Citrus
Feedback
Distribution Map of Citrus
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Citrus
Feedback
Citrus is a vibrant genus of fruit-bearing plants requiring careful attention to basic care. Ideal conditions include abundant sunlight, regular watering, well-draining soil, and mild temperatures. Common challenges for citrus plants generally involve pests like aphids and diseases such as citrus canker. Due care should be taken to inspect plants regularly and initiate control measures promptly. Seasonally, citrus plants require different care levels; they flourish in summer and spring, necessitating more water, while winter care requires frost protection and reduced watering.
How to Water Citrus?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Citrus?
How to Propagate Citrus?
How to Plant Citrus?
Exploring the Citrus Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Key lime
Key lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) is an evergreen fruit tree famous for its golf-ball-sized green limes, which are used to make key lime pie and cocktails. It has dark green leaves and has sharp thorns. It blooms fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers in spring and produces fruit in summer. Grows in full sun with well-drained soil.
Lemon
Lemon is a cultivated small evergreen tree known for its yellow, juicy, sour fruits full of citric acid. Its origins are unknown, but it was probably first created in India, China, or Burma as a hybrid of sour orange (Citrus × aurantium) and citron (Citrus medica). It is commercial fruit cultivated in warm regions around the world.
Bitter orange
The bitter orange, or Citrus × aurantium, are an ornamental citrus frequently used as root stock for other types of orange trees. Bitter orange trees are colder hardy than their edible cousins and can be grown in large containers outdoors. The fruit and rind are bitter and sour compared to traditional oranges, but can be used to make marmalade.
Mandarin orange
The mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata) is a citrus fruit tree. It is famed for its Mandarin oranges, a commonly consumed fruit which can be eaten plain or used in salads. During the Chinese New Year, the fruit is considered a symbol of good fortune.
Kaffir lime
This dwarf citrus tree grows extremely well when potted in a sunny spot indoors, and its maximum height is 1.5 m. Both the kaffir lime's fruit and the distinctive, two-lobed leaves are edible and an important part of many tropical Asian dishes. The fruits can also be used in cleaning solutions and hair care products.
Kumquat
The kumquat is a cold-hardy evergreen citrus tree. In spring, the kumquat produces sweet-smelling white flowers. Its small orange edible fruit, kumquats, can be eaten whole. It will grow nicely as a container plant.
Hardy orange
A native to Northern China and Korea, hardy orange is recognizable by the large 3 to 5 cm thorns on the shoots and its deciduous leaves. It is also unique as a citrus plant because its fruit has a downy fuzz similar to a peach. The ripe fruit is very bitter but can be used to make marmalade.
Pomelo
Pomelo (*Citrus grandis*) is a greenish, tropical and subtropical fruit originally that is larger than any other citrus fruit on the planet (thus the species name - 'grandis'). Though it is the ancestor of the commonly cultivated grapefruit (citrus x paradisi), the pomelo has a thick, hard-to-peel rind and doesn’t have a lot of juice. Nevertheless, it is commonly eaten in Southeast Asia.
All Species of Citrus
Key lime
Key lime
Key lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) is an evergreen fruit tree famous for its golf-ball-sized green limes, which are used to make key lime pie and cocktails. It has dark green leaves and has sharp thorns. It blooms fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers in spring and produces fruit in summer. Grows in full sun with well-drained soil.
Lemon
Lemon
Lemon is a cultivated small evergreen tree known for its yellow, juicy, sour fruits full of citric acid. Its origins are unknown, but it was probably first created in India, China, or Burma as a hybrid of sour orange (Citrus × aurantium) and citron (Citrus medica). It is commercial fruit cultivated in warm regions around the world.
Bitter orange
Bitter orange
The bitter orange, or Citrus × aurantium, are an ornamental citrus frequently used as root stock for other types of orange trees. Bitter orange trees are colder hardy than their edible cousins and can be grown in large containers outdoors. The fruit and rind are bitter and sour compared to traditional oranges, but can be used to make marmalade.
Mandarin orange
Mandarin orange
The mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata) is a citrus fruit tree. It is famed for its Mandarin oranges, a commonly consumed fruit which can be eaten plain or used in salads. During the Chinese New Year, the fruit is considered a symbol of good fortune.
Kaffir lime
Kaffir lime
This dwarf citrus tree grows extremely well when potted in a sunny spot indoors, and its maximum height is 1.5 m. Both the kaffir lime's fruit and the distinctive, two-lobed leaves are edible and an important part of many tropical Asian dishes. The fruits can also be used in cleaning solutions and hair care products.
Kumquat
Kumquat
The kumquat is a cold-hardy evergreen citrus tree. In spring, the kumquat produces sweet-smelling white flowers. Its small orange edible fruit, kumquats, can be eaten whole. It will grow nicely as a container plant.
Hardy orange
Hardy orange
A native to Northern China and Korea, hardy orange is recognizable by the large 3 to 5 cm thorns on the shoots and its deciduous leaves. It is also unique as a citrus plant because its fruit has a downy fuzz similar to a peach. The ripe fruit is very bitter but can be used to make marmalade.
Pomelo
Pomelo
Pomelo (*Citrus grandis*) is a greenish, tropical and subtropical fruit originally that is larger than any other citrus fruit on the planet (thus the species name - 'grandis'). Though it is the ancestor of the commonly cultivated grapefruit (citrus x paradisi), the pomelo has a thick, hard-to-peel rind and doesn’t have a lot of juice. Nevertheless, it is commonly eaten in Southeast Asia.
Citron
Citron
Citron (*Citrus medica*) is a citrus species whose use dates back to the days of Ancient Greece, with preserved pollen indicating its cultivation at least 2,500 years ago. Although it looks scrumptious, this lemon-like citrus is mostly composed of rind and has very little pulp. This variety of citrus actually predates lemons, which were selectively bred into what we know today. The citron fruit is used in various religious ceremonies in the Mediterranean region and elsewhere.
Citrus fruits 'Meyer'
Citrus fruits 'Meyer'
The citrus fruits 'Meyer' is a cultivar of lemon and mandarin orange. It was named for Frank Meyer as he discovered it. California has improved this variety of fruit over the years, specifically improving it to be more disease resident in the 1970s. With pruning this lemon tree can be grown in a pot, making it a great option for someone who doesn't have space for a full-grown citrus fruits 'Meyer' tree.
Australian finger lime
Australian finger lime
Australian finger lime trees are usually grown as ornamentals for their flowers and fruit, but the fruit has started to develop a commercial market. It is cultivated as a food crop in its native Australia. The Australian government has hybridized the australian finger lime with several other citrus species to produce different varieties and colors of limes for commercial sale.
Flesh-finger citron
Flesh-finger citron
Flesh-finger citron is named for its highly distinctive fruit, which separates into fingerlike segments at one end. This fruit is used in marmalade, drinks, or as a garnish for salad dressings. Its pleasant citrus smell and interesting appearance also make it a fascinating specimen tree.
Calamansi
Calamansi
Calamansi is a citrus tree that's believed to be a natural hybrid, with the Kumquat included in its parentage. It is readily cultivated not only for its edible, highly acidic fruit but also for its ornamental features. Both flowers and foliage are fragrant and aromatic.
Oval Kumquat 'Centennial'
Oval Kumquat 'Centennial'
Oval Kumquat 'Centennial' is a hybrid cumquat that is notable for its variegated leaves, which are green and white in comparison to the plain green leaves of the parent shrub. This hybrid was named in honor of the 100th anniversary of the United States Horticultural Research Laboratory. This small tree is grown ornamentally for these attractive leaves and for its small bright orange fruit.
Kumquat
Kumquat
Kumquat (genus Citrus japonica 'Kumquat') are a large group of tropical and warm-temperate flowering plants that are of tremendous culinary and commercial importance to humans. Kumquat include some of the most popular fruits in the world, including oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and tangerines. They are thought to have been cultivated since at least 3,000 BCE - that's 5,000 years ago! In addition to being grown for their fruits, these plants are also grown as ornamentals or as nectar-providers for bees.
Citrus fruits 'Eureka Pink Variegated'
Citrus fruits 'Eureka Pink Variegated'
The citrus fruits 'Eureka Pink Variegated' (Citrus × limon 'Eureka Pink Variegated') is a cultivar in the citrus family. The tree features white-and-green striped leaves, but the real star of the show is its fruit. Unlike a typical Eureka lemon, its rind is striped green and yellow until maturity, and the cultivar is named after the pink flesh found inside!
Citrus fruits 'Moro'
Citrus fruits 'Moro'
Citrus fruits 'Moro' is a delicious and sweet citrus fruit, with a distinctive deep red flesh. Originating from Italy, this orange is celebrated for its high levels of vitamin C and anthocyanins, which provide numerous health benefits.
Yuzu
Yuzu
Yuzu is a small, evergreen tree native to Japan. Its oval leaves have a glossy texture and emit a refreshing scent. The fruit of yuzu, known as yuzu, has a distinct sour flavor and is used in various culinary dishes, such as ponzu sauce and tea.
Citrus fruits 'Eureka'
Citrus fruits 'Eureka'
The citrus fruits 'Eureka' is a citrus cultivar created in California from imported Italian lemon trees (Lisbon lemons). It was named by a nursery worker and was first known as Garey's Eureka. This cultivar is sometimes grown as a houseplant in cooler climates. The citrus fruits 'Eureka' is most commonly found in US grocery stores and is known for its many culinary uses.
Australian desert lime
Australian desert lime
Australian desert lime is a resilient, small to medium-sized bushy tree thriving in arid environments. Its distinctive, dull blue-green foliage and sparse thorns adapt well to hot, dry climes. Bearing round, yellow-green fruits resembling small oranges, australian desert lime's thick-skinned offerings are tart in taste, yet valued for their high vitamin C content and use in preserves.
More Popular Genus
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Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Citrus
Citrus
Citrus (genus Citrus) are a large group of tropical and warm-temperate flowering plants that are of tremendous culinary and commercial importance to humans. Citrus include some of the most popular fruits in the world, including oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and tangerines. They are thought to have been cultivated since at least 3,000 BCE - that's 5,000 years ago! In addition to being grown for their fruits, these plants are also grown as ornamentals or as nectar-providers for bees.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Key Facts About Citrus
Feedback
Attributes of Citrus
Planting Time
Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Plant Height
6 m
Spread
3 m
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
10 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Citrus
Distribution of Citrus
Feedback
Distribution Map of Citrus
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Citrus
Feedback
Citrus is a vibrant genus of fruit-bearing plants requiring careful attention to basic care. Ideal conditions include abundant sunlight, regular watering, well-draining soil, and mild temperatures. Common challenges for citrus plants generally involve pests like aphids and diseases such as citrus canker. Due care should be taken to inspect plants regularly and initiate control measures promptly. Seasonally, citrus plants require different care levels; they flourish in summer and spring, necessitating more water, while winter care requires frost protection and reduced watering.
How to Water Citrus?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Citrus?
How to Propagate Citrus?
How to Plant Citrus?
Exploring the Citrus Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Key lime
Key lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) is an evergreen fruit tree famous for its golf-ball-sized green limes, which are used to make key lime pie and cocktails. It has dark green leaves and has sharp thorns. It blooms fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers in spring and produces fruit in summer. Grows in full sun with well-drained soil.
Lemon
Lemon is a cultivated small evergreen tree known for its yellow, juicy, sour fruits full of citric acid. Its origins are unknown, but it was probably first created in India, China, or Burma as a hybrid of sour orange (Citrus × aurantium) and citron (Citrus medica). It is commercial fruit cultivated in warm regions around the world.
Bitter orange
The bitter orange, or Citrus × aurantium, are an ornamental citrus frequently used as root stock for other types of orange trees. Bitter orange trees are colder hardy than their edible cousins and can be grown in large containers outdoors. The fruit and rind are bitter and sour compared to traditional oranges, but can be used to make marmalade.
Mandarin orange
The mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata) is a citrus fruit tree. It is famed for its Mandarin oranges, a commonly consumed fruit which can be eaten plain or used in salads. During the Chinese New Year, the fruit is considered a symbol of good fortune.
Show More Species
All Species of Citrus
Key lime
Lemon
Bitter orange
Mandarin orange
Kaffir lime
Kumquat
Hardy orange
Pomelo
Citron
Citrus fruits 'Meyer'
Australian finger lime
Flesh-finger citron
Calamansi
Oval Kumquat 'Centennial'
Kumquat
Citrus fruits 'Eureka Pink Variegated'
Citrus fruits 'Moro'
Yuzu
Citrus fruits 'Eureka'
Australian desert lime
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
