Calamansi - Citrus microcarpa (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images, Edible)

Calamansi

Also known as: Philippine lemon, Musk lime, Golden lime, Calamondin

Calamansi is a citrus tree that's believed to be a natural hybrid, with the Kumquat included in its parentage. It is readily cultivated not only for its edible, highly acidic fruit but also for its ornamental features. Both flowers and foliage are fragrant and aromatic.

Scientific classification

Species

Calamansi (Citrus microcarpa)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

80 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Orange

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Calamansi

Toxicity

All parts of the calamansi plant are toxic to cats and dogs. It causes mild to severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and light sensitivity. Fruits have the highest toxin concentration. Severe cases in dogs may lead to tremors, low blood pressure, or death. Consult a vet if ingestion occurs in pets.

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Care Guide for Calamansi

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Calamansi thrives in high humidity and prefers a balance of moisture and dryness, needing watering every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen, it retains leaves year-round, requiring consistent watering even in cooler months to sustain its growth cycle.

Fertilize: Calamansi requires high-phosphorus fertilizers for blooming and balanced nutrition for overall health. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer, and 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. Use a quarter cup for young trees, adjusting for maturity. Excess can cause root burn; follow dosage guidelines.

Pruning: Calamansi produces small, fragrant fruits and benefits from regular pruning. Essential techniques include removing dead branches and thinning crowded areas, ideally done in early to late winter. Proper pruning fosters healthier growth, improves fruit yield, and minimizes pests, emphasizing clean, angled cuts to prevent disease.

Propagation: Calamansi is a small tropical fruit tree from the Philippines, producing round, green to yellow fruits high in vitamin C. It thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil. Propagation works best with stem cuttings, using a peat and perlite mixture, kept moist under indirect light until rooted.

Repotting: Repot calamansi every 2-3 years in spring to promote healthy growth. Use a pot 2-3 inches larger for root development. Ensure well-draining soil and regular watering post-repotting, while monitoring for shock and adjusting care for recovery.

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Learn More About Calamansi