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Description
Citrus Trifoliata, also known as trifoliate orange or Japanese bitter orange, is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the family Rutaceae. It is native to Korea, China, and Japan and was introduced to North America in the early 1800s. This plant is known for its hardiness, drought tolerance, and thorny branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Citrus |
Appearance
Citrus Trifoliata can grow up to 20 feet tall with a spread of 15 feet. Its branches are covered in thorns and its leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are divided into three leaflets. The leaves are dark green and glossy, turning yellow in the fall. The flowers are white and fragrant, appearing in the spring, followed by small orange fruits that are bitter and inedible.
Care Guide
Citrus Trifoliata is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. However, it prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water deeply and regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Citrus Trifoliata prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Citrus Trifoliata is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Citrus Trifoliata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by the following:
- Scale insects
- Citrus rust mite
- Leaf miner
- Citrus canker
- Root rot
Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent and treat these problems.
Habitat
Citrus Trifoliata is native to Korea, China, and Japan and is commonly found in woodlands, thickets, and along roadsides. It has been introduced to North America and is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Here are some frequently asked questions about Citrus Trifoliata:
- Q: Can you eat the fruit of Citrus Trifoliata?
- A: No, the fruit is bitter and inedible.
- Q: Is Citrus Trifoliata a good plant for a beginner gardener?
- A: Yes, it is a hardy plant that requires minimal care.
- Q: How tall does Citrus Trifoliata grow?
- A: It can grow up to 20 feet tall.
- Q: What is the hardiness zone for Citrus Trifoliata?
- A: It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Citrus aurantium
- Citrus limon
- Citrus reticulata
- Citrus sinensis
References
- “Citrus trifoliata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 19 October 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279282&isprofile=0&pt=2>
- “Trifoliate Orange.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 19 October 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/HS126/Htm>
- “Citrus Trifoliata.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed 19 October 2021. <https://plantdatabase.uconn.edu/plant.php?id=689>
