Contents
Description
Citrus plants are popular for their juicy and flavorful fruits, which are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and minerals. Native to Asia, these plants belong to the Rutaceae family and are widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The most common citrus fruits include oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, tangerines, and pomelos, among others. Citrus plants are known for their fragrant flowers, glossy leaves, and thorny branches. They are also valued for their ornamental and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Citrus |
Appearance
Citrus plants vary in size and shape depending on the species and variety. They can range from small shrubs to tall trees, with heights ranging from 2 to 15 meters. The leaves are evergreen and glossy, with a dark green color and a leathery texture. The flowers are white, pink, or purple, and are usually very fragrant. The fruits are round or oval, with a smooth and thin skin, and can range in color from yellow to orange, red, green, or even black. The pulp is juicy and acidic, with a sweet or sour taste depending on the variety.
Care Guide
Citrus plants require specific care to grow and thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of your citrus plant:- Water: Citrus plants need regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and avoid letting the plant dry out completely.- Fertilization: Citrus plants need regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Citrus plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils or soils that are too sandy.- Sunlight: Citrus plants need plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruits. Make sure your plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Citrus plants are sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. Make sure you choose a variety that is suitable for your hardiness zone.
Common Pests & Diseases
Citrus plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:- Citrus greening: A bacterial disease that affects the leaves, fruit, and roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.- Citrus canker: A bacterial disease that causes lesions on the leaves, fruit, and twigs of the plant, leading to defoliation and reduced fruit production.- Aphids: Small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.- Spider mites: Tiny arachnids that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing discoloration and defoliation.- Scale insects: Small insects that attach themselves to the branches and leaves of the plant, sucking the sap and causing yellowing and defoliation.
Habitat
Citrus plants are native to Asia, but are now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They prefer warm and humid climates, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 35°C. Citrus plants grow best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter, and require plenty of sunlight and regular watering.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the most common citrus fruit?
A: The most common citrus fruit is the orange.
Q: How often should I fertilize my citrus plant?
A: Citrus plants should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: How much sunlight do citrus plants need?
A: Citrus plants need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Q: What is citrus greening?
A: Citrus greening is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves, fruit, and roots of citrus plants, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
Related Plants
– Lemon- Lime- Orange- Grapefruit- Tangerine- Kumquat- Pomelo- Mandarine
References
– “Citrus.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 12 May 2020.- “Citrus.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 05 May 2020. Web. 12 May 2020.- “Growing Citrus in the Home Landscape.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Regents of the University of California, n.d. Web. 12 May 2020.
