Citrus microcarpa (Calamondin Orange)

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Citrus microcarpa
- Common names: Calamondin Orange

Background & Origin
Citrus microcarpa, commonly known as calamondin, calamansi or Philippine lime, is a small citrus tree originating from the Philippines and surrounding parts of Southeast Asia. It is thought to be a natural hybrid involving mandarin-type citrus and kumquat. Widely grown as both an ornamental and fruiting plant, it is particularly popular as a potted indoor citrus thanks to its compact growth, attractive foliage, fragrant flowers and prolific little fruits. The fruits are intensely tart and are commonly used in Filipino and Southeast Asian cooking, drinks, marinades and sauces.

Care Level
- Care level: Easy
- Suitable for beginners: Yes!

What It Loves
- Bright indirect sunlight
- A consistent watering routine
- Some humidity

What It Dislikes
- Overwatering or sitting in soggy soil
- Cold draughts
- Prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Living rooms
- Bathroom
- Kitchens
- Bedrooms

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Up 60-100 cm tall with time
- Typical spread: Up to 45-100 cm wide
- Growth rate: Fast during spring and summer
- Pruning required: Occasional, to manage size or old foliage

Is This Plant Right for You?
This plant is a great choice if you:
- like an interestung fruiting tree

Light
- Best light: Give it as much light as possible. A bright south- or west-facing window is ideal, and several hours of direct sunlight will help it flower and fruit well.
- Avoid: Shade

Watering
- Frequency: Water when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry, using room temperature water.
- Seasonal note: Reduce watering in winter when growth slows. Always allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.

Humidity
- Prefers: Average household humidity is usually fine, although it will appreciate a more humid environment, particularly in centrally heated homes.
- Extra humidity helpful?: Yes, misting or placing near other plants can support healthy leaf growth.

Feeding
- Feed with: Feed every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer with a citrus fertiliser. Reduce feeding considerably over winter when growth slows.
- Frequency: Once or twice a month during spring and summer. No feeding is needed during autumn and winter.

Toxicity
- Pet safe: No
- Notes: Keep out of reach of pets and small children

Repotting
- How often: Every 1 -2 years
- Signs it’s needed: Roots growing out of the drainage holes, slower growth, or soil drying very quickly. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.