Citrus cavaleriei Seeds | Big-winged Citrus
LATIN NAME: Citrus cavaleriei
COMMON NAME: Big-winged Citrus
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Big-winged Citrus, Citrus cavaleriei is a tree in the orange family. Young growth flushes with bronze tints, and sharp, aromatic oils in leaves and rinds give plant its own clear place in citrus world. It is a tree of mild, moist, sheltered ground, with open, sunny position and deep, well-drained soil. Not many plants ask so little and repay so much.
Science & Biotechnology
Seed science, comparative botany and horticultural selection all touch on Citrus cavaleriei, a representative of the orange family with clear practical value. Citrus breeders have kept cavaleriei citrus in their notebooks for a century, because this wild orange carries a cold tolerance that commercial fruits lost along the way. Continuing work by breeders and collectors keeps good seed of this species moving through the trade.
Uses & Benefits
Big-winged Citrus brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Around this hardy citrus, a practical economy has grown. Rough-skinned fruits make tart, fragrant marmalade, peel yields aromatic oils that soap and perfume trade use, and flowers draw bees through late spring. In garden tree earns attention for glossy, winged foliage and clean scent, while dense canopy gives nesting cover to the birds. Thereafter it wants only the ordinary attentions any garden plant receives.
Citrus gives far more than vitamin C: peel flavonoids such as hesperidin and naringin are studied for vascular health, the dried peels, Chen Pi and Qing Pi, are major Chinese digestive herbs, and citrus pectin is a standard soluble fiber ingredient.
Growing from Seed
Big-winged Citrus grows readily from seed. Sow thinly on the surface of a loose, well-drained seed compost, cover lightly, water in gently and keep the tray in a sunny spot with even moisture. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Big-winged Citrus has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. Fresh seed sown into evenly moist compost is most of the battle won.
Related Reading
If Big-winged Citrus appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: