Kumquats

Oval - Nagami

Citrus margarita

(Lour.) Swingle

TCF-015

Varietal Group:

Kumquats and their hybrids

Origin:

China

Availability:

January - April

Origin data

The Oval Kumquat is native to southern China. It is mentioned in Chinese literature as far back as 1178 B.C. Nagami, the name of the variety, refers to its Japanese designation. It is the most cultivated kumquat in the world, primarily in China, Japan, Taiwan, and the USA. Israel is the leading European producer. The species name margarita comes from the Latin (margaritus, -a, -um), meaning "pearl," clearly referring to the small, shiny fruits of this kumquat.

Tree and fruit description

Vigorous and highly productive tree. With great ornamental value. Oval fruits, intense orange color, pleasant taste, and small size. Sweet and edible rind, although the essential oils are more present than in other kumquats. Acidic pulp with few seeds.

Uses

It is consumed fresh and whole, thus combining the properties of a sweet rind and a sour pulp. It is also candied whole in syrup (typical in Hong Kong). It is processed for the production of jams and other desserts. Additionally, it is macerated for the production of liqueurs. Cooking it mitigates the acidity of the pulp, so it is used as a side dish for meats or fish.