Citrus japonica ‘Nagami’ (Kumquat)

Native to southeastern China and Hainan, this evergreen shrub or small tree has a dense crown. Its cultivar ‘Nagami’ is a widely grown kumquat with narrow green leaves and small white flowers. The oval fruits turn orange when ripe and typically measure about one and one-quarter inches long. Their sweet, aromatic rind is eaten together with the distinctly acidic flesh, which usually contains several seeds. The fruits are also used in marmalades, preserves and chutneys. In climates with cool winters, the tree becomes partly dormant, helping it withstand colder conditions than many other citrus plants. Mature fruits can remain on the branches for an extended period. Photographed in Florida.