Centennial Variegated Kumquat Citrus Tree
Centennial Variegated Kumquat Citrus Tree is a very unique variety discovered as a spontaneous variegated genetic mutation from an unknown breeding project. It is thought to be a cross between a Nagami Kumquat and a mandarin given how incredibly sweet it is. Centennial Variegated Kumquat rivals Meiwa in the sweetness of its fruit. This upright growing citrus tree is very dense, shrubby and incredibly ornamental with its gorgeous variegated foliage and striped immature fruits. Centennial flowers in late spring and ripens fruit mid-winter, though fruit will hang on the tree without spoiling for many months. It is difficult to find a better citrus variety for the home grower than the Centennial Variegated Kumquat. The incredibly ornamental foliage and absolutely delicious fruit make it one of our favorite citrus trees to grow at home. Experimental growers in USDA Zones 8 can add Centennial to the list of cold hardy citrus varieties to experiment with.
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Latin Name: Fortunella margarita ‘Centennial’
Site and Soil: Can be grown outdoors in regions with mild winters. It likes 1/2 day to full sun and well drained soil. If growing it in a pot, in the winter place your plant in a well-lit room. Potting soil should be coarse, acidic, and well-drained.
Rootstock Description: Flying Dragon is a hardy and very dwarfing rootstock for Citrus that induces very early flowering and fruit production. Trees grown on Flying Dragon will rarely exceed 5 ft. in height and will often produce fruit the year they are planted.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile. You can help it set fruit by taking a small brush and moving pollen from flower to flower.
Hardiness: Hardy to at least 27 °F, possibly lower once established and in the right microclimate.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 4-6 ft.
Taste: Very sweet
Fruit Skin: Striped yellow and greenish to orange
Fruit Flesh: Orange
Bloom Time: Spring
Ripening Time: Late fall to winter.
Yield: 30+ lbs.
Care: Fertilize with citrus mix 3-4 times per year with typical applications in late winter (Jan-Feb), late spring (May-June) and early fall (Sept-Oct).
Pests & Diseases: While outside, Citrus plants will likely not be bothered by insect pests. Be on the lookout for slugs. Indoors, Citrus can have mites and/or aphids. Watch carefully for any problems and treat with an insecticidal soap or wash them off. We have not seen any disease problems on our Citrus plants.
USDA Zone: 8