This evergreen tree is native to Southeast China and tropical Malaysia but is now cultivated throughout the Gulf Coast region of the United States. It is less sensitive to cold and frost than many other citrus varieties since it can handle temperatures as low as 10°F. Kumquats grow best in full sun, but they can tolerate some shade. They usually reach heights of 15 feet when planted in the open. Leaves are oval-to-spear shaped and are a darker green on the top of the leaf than on the bottom. The bark is brown and has a relatively smooth texture. Like other citrus, flowers are white and bloom in the spring, but blossoms are not as fragrant as those of other citrus varieties are. Kumquat fruits resemble miniature oranges that are round or oval in shape, and are generally not more than 2 inches in length or diameter. The fruit reaches maturity in October and the tree continues to produce fruits through March. Both the pulp and the rind are edible.

Kumquat The name “kumquat” is a synthesis of the Chinese words gam (金), meaning gold, + gwat (橘), a term for tangerines.

Fortunella is the name given to the kumquat genus in honor of Robert Fortune who in 1846 was the first person to import kumquats into Europe.

Fact Sheet: Kumquat

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