Citrus madurensis Lour.

ORIGIN DATA:

Calamondin is a unique hybrid, the result of a natural cross between a kumquat and a mandarin. It is very abundant in the Philippines and the Malaysian archipelago.

TREE AND FRUIT DESCRIPTION:

A tree of average vigor, very productive, of vertical bearing. Small, oval leaves. Rounded fruit, with a slightly flattened apical area, very small in size. Very thin, smooth, aromatic rind with apparent oil glands. Orange to orange-red in color, the rind is sweet, but only peels well at maturity. Orange-colored pulp, tender, juicy, sour and bitter. Presents seeds.

USES:

The ripe fruit stays well on the tree. High ornamental value, very cold resistant. Used as condiment in the Philippine cuisine, replacing the lime. Also used in beverages, to marinate fish and meat, or in the preparation of sweets. It can be processed as jam, better combined with kumquat. In Malaysia, the whole fruit is fried in coconut oil and used to prepare curry.