CUMQUAT

Citrus japonica

Cumquats are small citrus trees whose fruits are known for their very tart citrus flavour. They can be grown in a pot with good drainage or in a sunny spot in the garden. Native to Asia, in Chinese and Vietnamese culture cumquats are often smashed with honey, ginger, and even salt and made into a syrup to fight off colds and flu.

PLANT

Early to mid autumn.

HARVEST

Fruit first appears in late summer and is ripe from mid winter, when it is slightly soft and turns deep orange. Pick fruits using scissors to avoid damaging the plant or gently trim the fruit of the tree In the ground they can grow up to 5 metres, while in a pot they can reach up to 3 metres.

EAT

They are mostly used in jams, marmalades and preserves, but many people also enjoy eating cumquat fruit whole – the trick is to eat the whole fruit, including the fragrant skin, which is very sweet and balances out the tartness.

PRESERVE

Like most fruit, cumquat can be preserved by turning it into a jam or marmalade.

RECIPES

Make your own cumquat marmalade!