Citrofortunella microcarpa (Calamondin)

Calamondin is a dwarf citrus hybrid, a cross between a kumquat and a mandarin, that has been treasured for centuries as an ornamental and culinary tree. Its waxy, fragrant white blossoms, bright orange fruits, and glossy evergreen foliage make it one of the most attractive citrus you can grow. The fruits are tart but edible, used in place of limes in drinks, marinades, and preserves.

In our climate at the Oregon coast, Calamondin is a container plant. It is cold-hardy to roughly 20 degrees F when mature, making it suitable outdoors only in USDA zones 8-10, so Langlois winters require it to come inside before frost. Indoors near a bright south or west window, it remains cheerful and productive, staying compact at 3-4 feet in a pot. Bring it back outside in late spring once nights stay reliably above 40 degrees F.

Give it the sunniest spot you have, at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil dries out, and feed with a citrus-formulated fertilizer from late winter through summer. Slightly acidic, well-draining soil is a must. ASPCA lists Calamondin Orange as non-toxic to dogs and cats.