Sweet Lemon Kumquat Plant Description
Scientific Name: Citrus limetta
Family: Rutaceae
Tamil Name: ஸ்வீட் எலுமிச்சை (Sweet Elumichai)
Tree Characteristics
Height: Typically 3–5 meters (10–16 feet) tall, but can vary depending on growing conditions and variety.
Crown: Dense and bushy with a spreading habit.
Bark: Thin, smooth, and greenish to brownish, with a slightly rough texture in older trees.
Leaves
Shape: Elliptical or ovate with a slightly wavy or serrated margin.
Size: Generally 4–8 cm (1.5–3 inches) long and 2–4 cm (0.8–1.5 inches) wide.
Color: Dark green on the top side, lighter green underneath. New leaves are often reddish.
Flowers
Structure: Small, star-shaped flowers with five white or pale yellow petals.
Size: About 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 inches) in diameter.
Blooming Period: Typically blooms in spring and summer, but may have multiple flowering periods.
Fruit
Shape: Usually round or slightly oval.
Size: Approximately 6–10 cm (2.4–4 inches) in diameter.
Color: Pale yellow to light green when ripe.
Skin: Thin, smooth, and glossy.
Flesh: Juicy and sweet, with a mild tangy flavor. The flesh is typically pale yellow or light green.
Seeds: Contains a few small, oval seeds.
Growing Conditions
Climate: Prefers subtropical to tropical climates with plenty of sunlight. It is more frost-tolerant than regular lemons but still needs protection from severe cold.
Soil: Thrives in well-drained, sandy-loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). It does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Uses
Culinary: Sweet lemons are eaten fresh or used in cooking and beverages. They are less acidic than regular lemons and can be used in salads, juices, and desserts.
Medicinal: Similar to other citrus fruits, sweet lemons are rich in vitamin C and are beneficial for boosting the immune system. They also have antioxidant properties.
Household: The mild flavor of sweet lemons makes them less commonly used in cleaning products compared to regular lemons.
Pests and Diseases
Common Pests: May be affected by pests such as aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miners.
Diseases: Can be susceptible to diseases like citrus canker, powdery mildew, and root rot. Proper care, including pest management and good sanitation practices, is essential.
