TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA


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Citrus trifoliata, Poncirus trifoliata, Hardy Orange, Trifoliate Orange

Citrus trifoliata, Poncirus trifoliata

Hardy Orange, Trifoliate Orange
Family: Rutaceae
Origin: China
USDA Zone: 6-9?
USDA Plant Hardiness MapSemi-shadeFull sunModerate waterWhite, off-white flowersThorny or spinyEdible plantPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsDeciduous plantEthnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Fragrant plantSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

This is the hardiest close relative of Citrus. It is a deciduous shrub armed with vicious spines and will survive temperatures as low as 0F to -10F. In the USA it certainly grows as far north as Boston, MA (Hardy for zones 5-9). The fruits are like small oranges about 1.5 inches across, very sour, but can be used in conserves and drinks. Watch it through the seasons. In spring it sports white, fragrant flowers. Its summer foliage is shiny and dark green. In autumn it sheds its leaves to show off its glossy-green stems. Fruit, which is very sour, also adds fall interest. It is a great barrier plant and can be trimmed to form a 3-foot hedge. It can also be used as a novelty specimen. It is also used as citrus rootstock.


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Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/poncirus_trifoliata.htm