Citrus medica (Citron) Plant

Description

Citrus medica, commonly known as citron, is one of the oldest cultivated citrus species, prized for its intensely fragrant rind and rich cultural history. Unlike most citrus fruits, citron contains very little pulp or juice, with the majority of the fruit made up of a thick, aromatic peel. This distinctive characteristic has made it highly valued for culinary, aromatic, and traditional uses for thousands of years.

Believed to have originated in India and Southeast Asia, citron spread along ancient trade routes into the Mediterranean, where it became an important part of both cuisine and cultural traditions. It remains especially significant in certain religious practices, such as the use of the “Etrog” during Jewish festivals, and continues to be appreciated worldwide for its heritage and uniqueness.

In the kitchen, citron is best known for its use as candied peel, a classic ingredient in baking, confectionery, and traditional desserts. The rind is also used to infuse flavour into liqueurs, syrups, and preserves, offering a sweet, complex citrus aroma that differs from lemons or oranges. Varieties such as Buddha’s Hand are particularly valued for their intense fragrance and are often used for zesting or as a natural air freshener.

Citrus medica is an excellent choice for gardeners and collectors looking to grow something a little different. With its striking fruit, historical significance, and aromatic qualities, citron offers both visual appeal and a connection to one of the earliest chapters in citrus cultivation.

 

• Specifications.

50mm Pot Size
Seed Grown Plant

 

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Citrus medica is a small, evergreen citrus with glossy leaves and beautifully scented white to purple-tinged flowers. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions and prefers well-drained soil, making it well suited to subtropical and warm temperate regions. While it can be grown successfully in many parts of Australia, some protection from frost is recommended, particularly when young.

Pruning: Prune mainly to shape the tree and improve airflow. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and lightly thin the centre to allow sunlight to penetrate. This helps reduce disease risk and encourages even growth.

Pests and Diseases: Like most citrus, citron can attract a range of common pests Monitor your plant for pests like aphids, citrus leaf miner, scale or spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, Eco Oil or Neem Oil

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: We recommend and use Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. We also stock an Australian Made liquid indoor fertiliser The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food which is easy to use and odourless

 

• We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

 

• We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

 

Interested in Citron? Have a look at these products

Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis (Buddha’s Hand Citron) Plant

Citrus australasica (Red Champagne Finger Lime) Plant

Citrus australasica (GPL Finger Lime) Plant