
Flying Dragon Trifoliate Orange
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Citrus trifoliata L. var. monstrosa T. (Flying Dragon)
The Flying Dragon, also known as Citrus trifoliata var. monstrosa, is a small, thorny shrub that typically grows up to 6 feet in height. It has an extremely ornamental corkscrew growth habit, making it a show-stopper, especially with its striking orange fruits in the fall. The plant is virtually free from insect and disease issues, making it easy to maintain.
Note: Due to import restrictions, we are unable to ship the Citrus to CA, PR, TX, FL, AZ, or HI.
The fruit is highly aromatic and used to make citrus-aide by adding sweetener and water. In Japan, the fruit is called "Karatachi," and there's even a folk song dedicated to it. A small jar filled with karatachi fruit soaked in honey creates a delicious sweet liquid, perfect for topping yogurt or making a soothing tea by adding a spoonful to hot water. However, the fruit is inferior to lemons as it is seedy, resin-like, and not very juicy, so it's not recommended to eat the fruit raw.
One of the key benefits of the Flying Dragon is its hardiness; it can withstand temperatures below zero, making it one of the hardiest citrus varieties. It thrives in USDA Zones 6-9 and is ideal for bonsai cultivation. The plant’s compact size and striking appearance make it a popular choice in nurseries.
Uses and Benefits:
- Fruits have medicinal uses in China (immature and dried mature fruits).
- In southern Germany, the fruit juice is used to make a flavoring syrup, while the peel is candied and used as a spice, providing a source of pectin.
- In Brazil, it is valued as a protective hedge against animals and trespassers.
- It is widely grown as an ornamental in Europe, Asia, and North America.
- Seedlings are commonly used as rootstocks for citrus and related species.
Plant Characteristics:
- Pest Resistance: Excellent
- Disease Resistance: Excellent
- Drought Tolerance: Very Good
- Heat Tolerance: Very Good
- Humidity Tolerance: Excellent
- Sun Tolerance: Very Good
- Wet Soil Tolerance: Fair
- Shade Tolerance: Fair
- No Spray: Excellent
- Salt Tolerance: Poor
- Fresh for Kids: Poor
- Deer Resistance: Very Good
- Thorns: Yes (long and curved)
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Soil Type: Adaptable
- Edible Type: Fruit
- Self Fertile: Yes
Space Requirements:
- Space: 7-foot circle
- Height: 6 feet
This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge, comments/opinions are always welcome.