Rutaceae - Botanical Family

Common names: Bael, Bengal Quince, Indian Bael, Wood Apple, Matoom

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: India

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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This plant is a medium sized tree that grows up to 40ft.This plant is known to posses some medicinal properties. All parts of this tree including, the roots, leaves, trunk, fruits, and seeds, are used for curing one human ailment, or another. The fruits are usually eaten by people.They taste like marmalade, and smell like roses. They are also used in the preparation of many medicines in villages. These protein-rich fruits are also used in making some very good drinks. They can also make a wonderful jam. The plant easily withstands long periods of drought, which are needed for better fruit yields. It grows in most soil and climate types, and requires little care when established.

Common name: Gonaqua Buchu

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Southern Africa

This plant is low-lying, compact, rounded and spreading. It produces masses of white flowers, and the natural oils within its leaves produce a pleasant fragrance when the foliage is crushed or handled. Once established, it withstands both drought and frost.

Common names: Indian Atalantia, Wild Lime

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Southeast Asia

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Australia

Common name: Boronia

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Australia

Boronias are known for their perfumed flowers, they are generally somewhat difficult to grow in cultivation. All species require excellent drainage and part shade.

Common name: Cape Chestnut

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Southern Africa

Calodendrum capense is a very ornamental tree, suitable for use as a shade or specimen tree in gardens and parks, also as a street tree. It does best in deep fertile, well-composted soil with plenty of moisture, particularly during spring and summer, and requires a warm sunny position. To develop and maintain its shapely canopy, it requires protection from strong, sustained winds.

At the south and east coast of southern Africa this tree is often evergreen, but inland it is deciduous.

Cape chestnut oil, obtained from the seeds, otherwise known as Yangu oil, is a popular oil in African skin care.

Common name: White Sapote

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Central America

Casimiroa edulis, more commonly known as the White Sapote, is native to Central America and highly appreciated for its taste. Its flesh has the texture and flavor of a creamy custard, making it a popular snack for those looking for a sweet treat. This edible variety is also known as the "sleepy sapote" as it is said to have soporific effects in certain parts of Mexico. There are two main varieties, the Homestead and Dade, and when in season (May -July) its thin-skinned fruit does not ship well.

White Sapote grows up to heights of 20 feet or more. It requires full sun and moderate water, while young plants need protection from cold snaps. The mature plant, however, is cold hardy to at least 30s F for short periods of time. A USDA Zone of 9-11 is ideal for growing this tree.

The white sapote fruit provides a variety of other benefits. It is an excellent source of energy and is rich in proteins, vitamins B and C, phosphorus, and calcium, as well as dietary fiber. This tree can produce a vast amount of fruit, offering a delicious dietary supplement for those looking for a nutritious snack.

White Sapote does best in a pot in cold regions. During warm seasons, the plant needs to be watered and fertilized frequently, and during colder months, it should be moved to a sun-protected area.

Common name: Mexican Orange Blossom

Cultivar: 'Aztec Pearl'

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Mexico

The Choisya ternata has hybridised with Choisya arizonica to give Choisya 'Aztec Pearl', a popular modern cultivar, which has leaves divided into 3-5 slender leaflets, and flowers which are pink in bud, opening white.This is a rounded, medium-sized shrub with shining, dark green leaves. These are opposite; they are pitted with numerous oil glands (which can be seen if the leaf is held up to the light) and give off a pungent odor when crushed. Happy in full sun or dappled shade, it will also do well in dry areas. Best planted in early autumn or wait until spring. If pruning required, then it should be done in mid spring.

Common name: Mexican Orange Blossom

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Mexico

Choisya ternata is a fast growing little shrub that is perfect for a mixed shrub hedge or border.

The Choisya ternata has hybridised with Choisya arizonica to give Choisya 'Aztec Pearl', a popular modern cultivar.

Common names: Calamondin, Calamondin Orange, China Orange, Musk Lime, Panama Orange, Philippine Orange, To-kumquat

Family: Rutaceae

Citrofortunella mitis, commonly known as Calamondin, is a small tree, reaching a height between 10-20 ft when fully grown. It is a beautiful tree with full sun requirements and regular water needs, with white and off-white flowers appearing in spring and summer. The Calamondin tree is best grown in USDA Zone 9-11 and is known to be quite hardy.

The tree produces edible fruits, roughly the size of a small orange. The acidic properties of the fruit make it perfect for use in a range of culinary dishes, from salads to pickles to sauces. Those who try this fruit will notice a tart flavor similar to lemon and lime yet distinctly unique. The juice is also prized for being a great alternative in citrus-based drinks like smoothies, juices, and cocktails.

The Calamondin fruit is known for its numerous health benefits. Rich in Vitamin C and other important antioxidants, eating them helps to nourish and protect from free radicals, among other benefits. Eating these fruits also encourages healthy cell growth, supports immune health, and lowers the risk of some diseases.

The Calamondin tree prefers warm and humid climates. In cold areas, you can still grow it in a pot. They require regular watering and plenty of sunlight, and can produce up to 100 fruits in a single season.