Kumquats

Kumquats are small citrus fruits produced by several species in the Fortunella genus. In many classifications they are placed in Citrus. Native to Southeast Asia, they are grown in warm temperate to tropical regions on evergreen trees or shrubs.

The fruit is oval or round, 3–4 cm long. The rind is sweet and edible; the flesh is tart. Varieties include Nagami kumquat (oval, tart, seeded) and Meiwa kumquat (round, very sweet, often seedless).

They can be eaten whole, fresh, or used in marmalades, candied peels, chutneys, and desserts. The zest adds bright citrus flavor.

Cultivation: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. More cold-tolerant than many citrus and can endure brief frost; grown in containers in cooler climates. Propagation by grafting is common.

Nutrition: Rich in vitamin C and fiber; relatively low in calories. The rind contains essential oils.