Citron
Citrus medica
A large, fragrant citrus fruit with a very thick, bumpy, and uneven yellow rind and a small amount of acidic pulp. It is one of the three original ancestral citrus species.
- Light
- Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily).
- Water
- Moderate; water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Sensitive to over-watering which causes root rot.
- Growth
- Evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching 8-15 feet in height with irregular, thorny branches and large, leathery leaves.
Care instructions
Requires full sun, well-draining acidic soil, and protection from frost. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging; fertilize with a citrus-specific feed during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily).
Watering
Moderate; water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Sensitive to over-watering which causes root rot.
Soil
Well-draining, sandy loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 7.0).
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 9-11; very sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures.
Growth habit
Evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching 8-15 feet in height with irregular, thorny branches and large, leathery leaves.
Bloom season
Year-round in warm climates, typically peaking in spring. Flowers are large, purplish on the outside, and highly fragrant.
Propagation
Most commonly propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings or grafting; can also be grown from seed, though fruit quality may vary.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to citrus leaf miner, scale insects, aphids, and fungal diseases like melanose or root rot in poorly drained soil.
Similar species
Lemon (Citrus limon), which has a thinner rind and more juice; Pummelo (Citrus maxima), which is larger and rounder with more pulp.