Citrus medica
TAXONOMY
FamilyRutaceae
GenusCitrus
Zone9
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Citrus medica, commonly known as citron, is a large shrub or small tree in the Rutaceae family. It is native to the subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. The plant is known for its large, fragrant fruits with a thick rind. Citron has been cultivated since ancient times and has various uses in culinary and traditional medicine.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Aurantium Medicum
Citron
Lemon
Limette
Limon Racemosum
Limon Spinosum
Limon Vulgare
Citrus alata
Citrus ×aurantium var. medica
Citrus ×aurantium var. proper
Citrus ×aurantium var. tamurana
Citrus balotina
Citrus bicolor
Citrus bigena
Citrus cedra
Citrus cedrata
Citrus crassa
Citrus fragrans
Citrus gongra
Citrus grandis var. pyriformis
Citrus hassaku
Citrus hiroshimana
Citrus kizu
Citrus kwangsiensis
Citrus ×limonia var. limetta
Citrus limonimedica
Citrus lumia
Citrus medica f. sudachi
Citrus medica subsp. bajoum
Citrus medica var. alata
Citrus medica var. digitata
Citrus medica var. dulcis
Citrus medica var. ethrog
Citrus medica var. limetta
Citrus medica var. medica
Citrus medica var. nana
Citrus medica var. odorata
Citrus medica var. proper
Citrus medica var. sarcodactylus
Citrus medica var. tarung
Citrus nana
Citrus odorata
Citrus pyriformis
Citrus sarcodactylis
Citrus sudachi
Citrus tuberosa
Ethrog
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD3,600
Dormancy3 Months
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Citrus medica requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers a humid environment. Regular watering is necessary, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it receives adequate light and warmth.Harvest
Citrus medica, commonly known as citron, should be harvested when the fruit reaches full size and the skin turns a bright yellow color, typically in late fall to early winter. To harvest, use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to prevent damage. Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising, and store in a cool, dry place. Regular monitoring of the fruit's ripeness is essential to ensure optimal flavor and quality.Soil
Citrus medica prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support its nutrient needs. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot, so a potting mix designed for citrus or a general-purpose mix with added perlite or sand is ideal.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-2-6 is recommended for Citrus medica. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production. Reduce feeding during the dormant period.Repotting
Repot Citrus medica every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Citrus medica can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting. The best time to propagate is during the spring or early summer. For cuttings, take a healthy stem, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.Pruning
Prune Citrus medica to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and trim back any overly long or leggy growth.Toxicity
Citrus medica is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the plant's thorns can cause physical injury, so handle with care. The fruit is edible and used in various culinary applications.Additional
Citrus medica is known for its aromatic flowers and fruits, which can add a pleasant fragrance to your garden or home. Regularly check for pests such as aphids, scale, and spider mites, and treat them promptly to prevent infestations.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
