Calamondin Orange, scientifically known as Citrus × microcarpa, is a small citrus tree known for its fragrant flowers and vibrant, tangy fruit. This plant is cherished for its ornamental appeal as well as its ability to produce small oranges that are both decorative and edible.
Common Names
- Calamondin Orange
- Calamansi
- Philippine Lime
- Golden Lime
Botanical Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Sapindales
- Family: Rutaceae
- Genus: Citrus
- Species: C. × microcarpa
Native Habitat
Calamondin Orange is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines and surrounding regions. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, where it grows in well-draining soil with ample sunlight.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Calamondin Orange has been cultivated in Southeast Asia for centuries, where it is prized for its fruit used in cooking, drinks, and as a natural remedy. The tree is also considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity, often featured in homes during celebrations.
Uses and Popularity
Calamondin Orange is popular for both its ornamental and practical uses. The tree is commonly grown in containers or as a landscape plant in warm climates. Its fruit, which resembles small oranges, is highly acidic and is often used in culinary dishes, sauces, and beverages.
Conservation Status
Calamondin Orange is widely cultivated and not considered endangered. It is a staple in tropical agriculture and is extensively grown in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia and the United States.
Description
Physical Characteristics
Calamondin Orange is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) tall. It has glossy, dark green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and small, round fruit that turns from green to bright orange when ripe. The fruit is usually about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter and is highly acidic.
Growth Habit
This plant has a compact growth habit and is well-suited for container gardening. It can be grown indoors in cooler climates, provided it receives plenty of sunlight. Outdoors, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Native Habitat
In its natural habitat, Calamondin Orange grows in tropical and subtropical regions with warm temperatures and high humidity. It is well-adapted to various soil types, provided they are well-draining, and requires full sun for optimal fruit production.
Popular Plant Varieties
Pineapple Plant
- Known for its striking rosette of spiny leaves and delicious fruit.
- Perfect for ornamental use or fruit production.
- Pineapple Plant
Key Lime
- Produces small, aromatic limes that are perfect for culinary use.
- Ideal for container gardening or as an ornamental plant.
Meyer Lemon
- A popular citrus tree known for its sweet, juicy lemons.
- Great for indoor or outdoor cultivation, with beautiful, fragrant flowers.
Care Guide
Light Requirements
Calamondin Orange thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown indoors, place the plant near a bright window where it can receive ample light. Plant Light Requirements
Watering Needs
Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. The Calamondin Orange prefers slightly acidic soil, so consider using rainwater or filtered water if possible. Indoor Plant Watering
Soil Preferences
Use a well-draining, sandy soil mix, similar to cactus or succulent soil. This type of soil ensures that water drains quickly, preventing root rot, which the Calamondin Orange is prone to if left in standing water. Indoor Plant Potting Mix
Temperature and Humidity
Calamondin Orange thrives in temperatures between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) and prefers high humidity. It can tolerate lower humidity indoors but will benefit from occasional misting or being placed in a more humid environment.
Fertilization
Feed Calamondin Orange with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Citrus-specific fertilizers can also be used to enhance fruit production. Natural Fertilizer
Pruning and Maintenance
Calamondin Orange requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage fruit production. Prune after fruiting to remove any dead or damaged branches. The plant may also benefit from occasional repotting to refresh the soil and provide room for root growth.
Propagation Methods and Tips
Seed Propagation
While Calamondin Orange can be propagated from seeds, it is often quicker and more reliable to propagate from cuttings or grafting.
Steps:
- Take a healthy cutting from a mature tree, about 6-8 inches long.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, bright area with indirect light.
- Water lightly and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots develop.
Common Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to Calamondin Orange by sucking the sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing and stippling. They thrive in dry conditions, so maintaining adequate humidity and regularly misting the plant can help deter them. If an infestation occurs, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap. Learn More
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that can infest the plant, particularly around the leaf bases. They feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth and leaf yellowing. To treat an infestation, wipe the affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or apply insecticidal soap. Learn More
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause leaf yellowing and drop if left untreated. Remove scales manually with a soft cloth or treat the plant with insecticidal soap. Learn More
Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats are small, black flies that lay their eggs in moist soil. While the adults are more of a nuisance, the larvae can damage the roots of the plant. To prevent fungus gnats, allow the soil to dry out between waterings and consider using sticky traps to catch the adult gnats. Learn More
Preventative Measures
To keep pests at bay, regularly inspect your Calamondin Orange for signs of infestation, maintain proper watering practices, and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Quarantining new plants before introducing them to your collection can also help prevent the spread of pests.
Benefits of Calamondin Orange
Air Purifying
Calamondin Orange contributes to air purification by producing oxygen and adding moisture to the air. This makes it a valuable addition to indoor spaces, particularly in kitchens and living areas. Air Purifying Plants
Pet Friendliness
Calamondin Orange is generally non-toxic to pets, though the citrus oils may cause mild irritation if ingested. It's still advisable to keep the plant out of reach of curious pets. Pet Friendly Plants
Low Maintenance
Calamondin Orange is a low-maintenance plant that thrives with minimal care. Its ability to grow in a variety of indoor conditions makes it ideal for busy plant owners or those new to fruit trees. Low Maintenance Plants
FAQs
Why is my Calamondin Orange not producing fruit?
Lack of fruit production can be due to insufficient light, improper watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Ensure your plant is receiving full sun, and consider using a citrus-specific fertilizer to encourage blooming and fruiting.
Can I grow a Calamondin Orange indoors?
Yes, Calamondin Orange can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight. A bright spot near a south-facing window is ideal, and the plant should be rotated regularly to ensure even growth.
How often should I repot my Calamondin Orange?
Repot your Calamondin Orange every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow room for growth and refresh the soil during repotting.
Note on Appearance
While photographs represent the typical appearance of Calamondin Orange, individual plants may vary slightly in size and color, adding to each plant's unique charm.
How to take care of Calamondin Orange
Light: Bright
Light: Bright
They prefer bright, indirect light for most of the day, with some exposure to direct sunlight in the morning or early afternoon.
Sun: Direct
Sun: Direct
Calamondin Oranges enjoy some direct sun, but they thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them where they can get morning or a few hours of afternoon sun followed by indirect light.
Water: When half dry
Water: When half dry
Keep the soil evenly moist, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Humidity: Medium
Humidity: Medium
They appreciate moderate humidity levels. Consider misting their leaves occasionally, especially in dry indoor environments.
Pet Friendly: Caution
Pet Friendly: Caution
Calamondin Orange is moderately toxic and ingestion can lead to adverse reactions in pets. It's advisable to prevent your pets from consuming it, as a general precaution for all plants.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Calamondin Orange plants benefit from occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
"I have only received part of my order. What to do?
No worries if you've only got part of your order! Our plants come from different nurseries and might arrive in separate shipments, typically 1-2 days apart. It's all part of ensuring your green friends reach you in top-notch condition!
If you do not receive the remaining packages within 48 hours contact support at info@mygreenscape.ca
What is the Life Time Support?
Absolutely! Lifetime support means you can count on us whenever you have questions or uncertainties about your plant. Whether you're puzzled by its behavior or just want to ensure it's thriving, we're here for you. Connect with us on Instagram @mygreenscapeto or shoot us an email at support@mygreenscape.ca.
When it comes to our guarantee for plants shipped with standard or express, rest assured that we offer a 30-day happy healthy plant guarantee on all such shipments. This ensures that your plants are covered for 30 days after delivery, giving you peace of mind regarding their condition. If you have any concerns within this period, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
For further details, please visit our Local Delivery, Store Pickup, Standard Shipping Guide Page.
What to expect
What to expect
Your plant will arrive in a standard nursery pot, typically 0.5" - 1" smaller than the stated size to seamlessly fit into your chosen decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are available for separate purchase.
Just like nature intended, each plant is unique, showcasing natural variations in size, shape, and characteristics. Our commitment is to deliver a plant that closely resembles the one featured on our website, matching your chosen size, and with the potential to thrive happily in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! If you're pondering about ordering plants online, you're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions. Check out our FAQ section here for quick answers! Happy planting!
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Choosing the right pot size for your plants can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to gardening. But fear not! Our pot sizes chart can help you find the perfect match for your plants, ensuring they have enough space to grow and thrive. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose the right pot size and plant variety for your gardening needs.
Plant Pot Size Guide.
Extra Small | 7-10 cm | 2.5 - 3 inches |
Small | 11-12 cm | 3.5 - 4 inches |
Medium | 14-17 cm | 5 - 6 inches |
Large | 19-21 cm | 8 - 10 inches |
Extra Large | 24-27 cm | 12 - 14 inches |
All sizes are specified in product details.
Your Complete Guide to Pot Sizes: What Size Should You Choose?
When selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to find the right size. But with all the different options out there, how do you know which one is best? We're here to help!
MyGreenscape's pot sizes chart is a great resource for finding your perfect fit. Our easy-to-read chart takes out all the guesswork and helps you quickly choose the right size for your plant.
Smaller pots are best for seedlings or small plants just starting out. These tend to be shallow but wide, allowing enough room for the roots of the young plant but not too much where they get overcrowded. Medium-sized pots are ideal when your plant has grown from its infancy and is ready for more space. These are deeper and wider than small pots, so that it can accommodate larger root systems - making sure your plant gets enough nourishment while still giving it breathing room. Large pots are top choice if you have an established plant in need of lots of space - think trees and large shrubs! The spacious depth and width allow plenty of room for deep root systems without struggling for air or light.
No matter what size you choose, MyGreenscape has got you covered, with our pot sizes chart guaranteeing you find the perfect fit every time!
Winter Shipping Protection
Winter Shipping Protection
We take extra care with each package during the colder months. For destinations experiencing cold weather, we provide insulated packaging and heat packs as needed to protect your plants from freezing temperatures. With Winter Shipping Protection, your plants are equipped to arrive safe and sound, even in winter’s chill.
Care Guide
Care Guide
Explore essential care tips. check out our Comprehensive Resource for Indoor Plant Care.
WATERING MADE EASY
Check soil moisture before watering and use a potting mix that drains well. It’s the secret to healthy, happy plants!
I am very pleased with my order. The plants came very healthy!!