Fortunella margarita

Fortunella margarita, commonly known as the Nagami kumquat, is a small citrus fruit that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is named after Robert Fortune, a Scottish horticulturist who introduced the fruit to Europe in the mid-19th century.

Description

The Fortunella margarita is a small evergreen tree that typically grows to a height of 2.5 to 4.5 meters. The leaves are dark glossy green, and the flowers are white, similar to other citrus flowers, and can be solitary or in small clusters. The fruit is small and oval, about 3-4 cm in length, with a thin, sweet-flavored skin and a sour pulp.

Cultivation

The Nagami kumquat is the most commonly grown variety of kumquat and is popular for its hardiness. It can withstand temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for cultivation in temperate climates. The tree is also relatively resistant to pests and diseases, which contributes to its popularity among home gardeners.

Uses

The fruit of the Fortunella margarita is edible and can be eaten whole, including the skin. It is often used in marmalades and jellies due to its high pectin content. The fruit is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its purported health benefits.

See also

• Citrus taxonomy
• List of citrus fruits