Citrus trifoliata
Japanese bitter orange
C. trifoliata is a bushy shrub or small tree to 7m tall, with green branches bearing large, stiff thorns to 5cm long, and fragrant white flowers like orange-blossom in spring or early summer, followed by orange fruits 4cm across
Other common names
bitter orangeChinese citron
see moreflying dragon
golden apple [4]
hardy orange
trifoliate orange
Synonyms
Poncirus trifoliataAegle sepiaria
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Orange | ||
| Winter | Orange |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Citrus are typically evergreen shrubs or trees, frequently spiny, with simple, leathery, aromatic leaves, usually with winged stalks, and often fragrant white or pink-tinged flowers, followed by large, juicy fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- C & S China
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, with shelter from cold, drying winds
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn. Alternatively, take semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Hedging and screens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally trouble free
Diseases
Generally trouble free
Get involved
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