Citrus macrophylla

Citrus macrophylla, also known as the Alemow, is a citrus species that is often used as a rootstock in commercial citrus cultivation. It is a member of the Rutaceae family and is native to the Philippines.

Description

The Citrus macrophylla is a small tree that typically grows to a height of 3-6 meters. It has large, glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, white, fragrant flowers. The fruit of the Citrus macrophylla is round, green, and about 4-6 cm in diameter. The fruit is not typically consumed due to its sour taste and large number of seeds.

Cultivation

Citrus macrophylla is primarily used as a rootstock for other citrus species. It is valued for its resistance to citrus tristeza virus and its ability to tolerate various soil conditions, including high salinity and calcareous soils. It is also used in breeding programs to develop new citrus varieties.

Propagation

Propagation of Citrus macrophylla is typically done through grafting. The scion, or upper part of the graft, is usually a desired citrus variety, while the rootstock is the Citrus macrophylla. This allows the desirable characteristics of the scion to be combined with the hardiness and disease resistance of the Citrus macrophylla.

Uses

While the fruit of the Citrus macrophylla is not typically consumed, it has been used in traditional medicine in the Philippines. The leaves and bark have been used to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and diarrhea.

See also

• Citrus
• Rootstock
• Citrus tristeza virus

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