Description:

This thorny shrub or small tree is one of the original citrus species; unique fruit that separates as it ripens into finger-like projections with an inner white pith that can be grated for zest; a great container plant for the patio or bright indoor areas

Features & Attributes

Buddha's Hand Citron features showy clusters of fragrant white star-shaped flowers with buttery yellow eyes at the ends of the branches from early spring to mid fall, which emerge from distinctive lilac purple flower buds. Its glossy oval leaves remain dark green in color throughout the year. The large yellow pointy fruit is edible and has a bitter taste and a fleshy texture. Note that in general, it can be difficult to get plants to reliably produce fruit indoors; this may be a challenge best reserved for adventurous and experienced gardeners.

This is a multi-stemmed evergreen houseplant with an upright spreading habit of growth. This plant may benefit from an occasional pruning to look its best.

Planting & Growing

When grown indoors, Buddha's Hand Citron can be expected to grow to be about 8 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 5 feet. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 50 years. This houseplant requires direct sun for optimal performance, and should therefore be situated in a room that gets bright sunlight for a good part of the day; it is not a good choice for rooms lit only by artificial light. It does best in average to evenly moist soil, but will not tolerate standing water. The surface of the soil shouldn't be allowed to dry out completely, and so you should expect to water this plant once and possibly even twice each week. Be aware that your particular watering schedule may vary depending on its location in the room, the pot size, plant size and other conditions; if in doubt, ask one of our experts in the store for advice. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in sandy soil. Contact the store for specific recommendations on pre-mixed potting soil for this plant.

There are many factors that will affect the ultimate height, spread and overall performance of a plant when grown indoors; among them, the size of the pot it's growing in, the amount of light it receives, watering frequency, the pruning regimen and repotting schedule. Use the information described here as a guideline only; individual performance can and will vary. Please contact the store to speak with one of our experts if you are interested in further details concerning recommendations on pot size, watering, pruning, repotting, etc.

-- THIS IS A HOUSEPLANT AND IS NOT MEANT TO SURVIVE THE WINTER OUTDOORS IN OUR CLIMATE --