Species kumquat
light-orange fruits and yellow-green leaves with light-green veins and midribs on green stems

kumquat

Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated'

Kumquat (Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated') is an amazing plant species that is both beautiful and beneficial. Not only does it have a unique taste - tart but sweet - it has an amazing growth habit, with stunning, variegated foliage. This small citrus tree bears fragrant, white flowers and colorful fruits that ripen in the winter. The kumquat's evergreen branches provide year-round interest in the garden, while its edible fruits offer an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. The kumquat is also known for its legendary hardiness, making it an excellent choice for a home orchard. Truly, the extraordinary kumquat deserves a place in any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 11

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Fruits:

green,yellow,orange Fruits Ready In Winter

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,white

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Kumquat (Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated') requires frequent but light watering. The plant should be watered once a week or every other week, depending on the season and temperature. During summer, or when temperatures rise, the kumquat should be watered more regularly. In winter, or when temperatures drop, the kumquat should be watered less frequently. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Moisture should be tested by sticking a finger into the soil and feeling the moisture level. A deep watering once a month can be helpful to prevent the soil from drying out. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.

sunlight

Kumquat (Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated') plants need plenty of sunlight to grow and bear fruit. Ideally, they should be placed in a location that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day, especially during spring and summer. They also need some shade in the afternoon, as intense sunlight can cause damage to the leaves. Exposure to strong winds should also be avoided, as it can cause leaf burn on the foliage. In the winter, they may require some protection from excessive cold and prolonged frosts.

pruning

Kumquat (Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated') should be pruned 2-3 times a year, preferably during the late spring and mid-summer. You should also lightly prune the plant during the fall to keep the plant shapely and prolific. When pruning, trim only local, dead, and/or diseased branches, avoid pruning too much off the main body of the plant. Pruning the kumquat will help reduce stress on the plant, improve air circulation, encourage new growth and also help maintain the desired shape of the plant. For best results, prune the kumquat with sharp, sterile pruning shears.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated' (kumquat) typically begins in November and continues through April.

Starts Flowering

Kumquats typically start flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between January and March.

Starts Flowering

Kumquats typically start flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between January and March.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Citrus japonica 'Centennial Variegated' (kumquat) typically begins in November and continues through April.

Hardiness Map