PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; provide dappled shade during intense summer afternoons to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates light frost down to 5°C; optimal growth occurs between 15–28°C; protect from extreme cold snaps
Characteristics
- Leaf: Glossy, lanceolate evergreen leaves (5–10 cm long) with aromatic oils when crushed
- Flower: Small, fragrant white or pale pink five-petaled blooms
- Fruit: Cylindrical, finger-shaped fruits (5–10 cm long) filled with caviar-like juice vesicles in varying colors (green, red, purple)
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during growing and fruiting seasons
Fertilization
Feed every 2–3 weeks with balanced citrus fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season to prevent frost-susceptible soft growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant; water in slowly to release calcium into the soilPruning
- Prune in late winter to shape the tree and remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches
- Thin crowded inner growth to improve air circulation and light penetration for better fruiting
- Remove rootstock suckers regularly to maintain fruiting growth on the grafted scion
- Trim back overlong branches to control size for potted specimens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Contains essential oils and psoralens, causing oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting
Humans: Essential oils may cause mild skin irritation; ingestion of large peel/fruit quantities may trigger stomach upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Edible fruit for culinary applications (garnishes, beverages); ornamental foliage and decorative fruit displays
