Citrus japonica ‘Meiwa’（In-store Only）

Citrus japonica 'Meiwa', commonly called Meiwa kumquat, is a small, slow-growing evergreen citrus tree with glossy dark-green foliage, fragrant white flowers and compact orange fruit. The rind is sweet while the flesh is acidic, making the fruit useful for fresh eating and preserves. This standard, non-dwarf product may reach approximately 3–4 m in Australian nursery guidance and suits an edible garden, sunny courtyard or large tub.

Key features

• Botanical name: Citrus japonica 'Meiwa'
• Common name: Meiwa kumquat
• Synonyms: Fortunella crassifolia; Fortunella × crassifolia 'Meiwa'
• Plant type: evergreen fruiting shrub or small tree
• Mature height: approximately 3–4 m for a standard non-dwarf tree
• Foliage: glossy dark-green evergreen leaves
• Flowers: small, white and fragrant
• Flowering: mainly after November in the NSW reference
• Fruit: orange kumquat with sweet rind and acidic flesh
• Position: full sun or the maximum practical sunlight
• Soil: deep sandy loam around pH 6–7, with good drainage
• Container suitability: suitable for a large tub

Growing in Australia

NSW guidance notes that the round cumquat available around Sydney is thought to be Meiwa. Give the tree maximum sunlight for fruit set and maturity and avoid low, severely frost-prone or exposed windy sites. Water deeply and regularly, especially during establishment and hot dry weather. Exposed fruit may sunburn during extreme conditions. A large tub is suitable when it receives enough sun, free drainage and more frequent watering. This product is not labelled dwarf, so allow for a standard tree reaching approximately 3–4 m.

Care tips

Water several times a week after planting until new growth begins, then adjust to deep regular watering according to weather and soil. Apply a complete citrus fertiliser according to tree age and label directions, keeping it away from the trunk and watering it in. Mulch to reduce evaporation, leaving a clear space around the trunk. Prune lightly to remove dead or poorly placed growth unless size control is needed, and monitor for fruit fly and common citrus pests.

Best uses

• Edible garden
• Feature fruit tree
• Courtyard or patio
• Large tub

Purchase note

Available for in-store purchase from Summer Garden. Product availability and plant size may vary by season.

FAQs

How tall does a standard Meiwa kumquat grow?

Australian nursery guidance gives approximately 3–4 m for a standard, non-dwarf tree.

What does Meiwa kumquat fruit taste like?

The rind is sweet and the flesh is acidic, providing the characteristic sweet-tart kumquat flavour.

Can Citrus japonica Meiwa grow in a tub?

Yes. Use a large tub with full sun, free drainage and more frequent watering than a garden-grown tree.