Calamondin Orange Tree

Also known as the Philippine Lime, Calamonding or calamansi, the Calamondin Orange is both beautiful and practical.

The fruits, which look like small oranges, have a sweet peel and slightly sour and acidic yet juicy flesh, and have many culinary uses. In the Philippines, due to the warmer climate the fruits remain green; in cooler climates the fruits ripen to orange.

Thought to originate from China. Commonly found in the Phillippines.

• Grow in a container as a shrub or small tree.
• Can be placed on the patio in summer but should be brought in during the winter.
• Sensitive to extreme or prolonged cold.
• Enjoys bright sunlight.
• Will not tolerate waterlogging.
• White flowers are highly scented.
• Ripens to a tangerine-sized, orange-coloured fruit, looking similar to a tangerine!

Culinary Uses

• Fruit can be eaten raw but is used primarily for cooking.
• The peel is sweet while the fruit is sour.
• Fruit can be frozen whole to be used as ice cubes.
• Juice can be made into a drink similar to lemonade.
• Juice can be used to season fish, chicken or pork.
• Mix juice with soy sauce as a dipping sauce.
• Fruit can be made into marmalade or couli.

Medicinal Uses

• Fruitis rich in Vitamins A and C.
• Used in treatments for acne, cough suppression and insect bites.

Other Uses

• Used as a deodorant.
• Useful as a hair conditioner.
• Essential oil is used in cleaning products because of its odour-suppressing properties.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.