Description
The Limequat is a self-fertile cross between the Kumquat tree and the Key Lime, (or Mexican Lime). This versatile little fruit can be eaten without peeling, like a Kumquat.
The Limequat is a self-fertile cross between the Kumquat tree and the Key Lime, (or Mexican Lime). This versatile little fruit can be eaten without peeling, like a Kumquat. They are also great for their juice, and have a sweeter, more orange-like taste than a Key Lime. Limequats do have seeds, but they are packed with a surprising amount of juice for their small size. They are easy to grow, tolerant of a range of conditions, and can produce numerous, juicy Limequats even on a small tree.
The Limequat is suited for growing in the ground in USDA Zones 8 – 11, and in a pot brought indoors in Zones 4 – 11. In fact, the Limequat is one of the best citrus trees to grow in a pot, because the smaller size of the tree and fruit respond well to the container-grown method. In the ground, the Limequat will reach a size of 6 to 10 feet tall and as wide. In a pot the tree can reach sizes of between 4 to 8 feet tall, depending on location and container size.
Citrus Tree Care
Much like the Key Lime, the Limequat is tolerant of both high heat and salty conditions, so it is perfect for growing outdoors in coastal areas. At the same time, Limequats are considered one of the easiest citrus trees to grow in a pot, either on a patio or indoors.
When growing a Limquat indoors in a container, be sure to provide the tree with as much light as possible in daylight hours. Place the tree in a south-facing window, or supplement with a grow light. If using grow lights, remember that citrus trees need a natural period of darkness each day as well, so turn these lights off at night.
Fruit & Harvesting
The small fruit of the Limquat Tree is round to oval, about two inches across, and yellow-green. They may contain several seeds, but are packed with sweet-tangy juice that is perfect for beverages, desserts, or cooking. The fruit is ready to pick when it becomes a bright yellow-green and has juicy flesh. Mature fruit also yields to the touch a bit more than Limequats that are still growing toward their full potential.
Limequat Trees can have some thorns, so you may use gloves when harvesting. Mature fruit is easy to pick by hand, and fully finished fruit will sometimes fall off on its own.
Advice
Limequats are cold-hardy down to 30 degrees, but if you are growing a Limequat in a container, it is advisable to bring the tree indoors if there is any chance of frost or freezing temperatures.
Limequats growing in the ground do best with frequent, deep watering in a well-drained location. For the first year, water your newly planted trees at least once a week, or when the surface of the soil is dry down to two inches. Once the tree is established and growing foliage and fruit, continue to water and fertilize frequently as long as the soil drains well, and never becomes saturated for a prolonged period of time.
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Anonymous (verified owner) –
Packed well & the plant arrived in pristine condition!
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Jonathan C. (verified owner) –
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Jonathan C. (verified owner) –
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