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.