Large Aromatic Fruits
Produces distinctive citron fruits with thick, fragrant yellow skin and an attractive textured surface.
Estimated Delivery:Nov 23 - Nov 27
Free Shipping on All Orders
Traditional Citron, scientifically known as Citrus medica, is an ancient citrus fruit tree valued for its large, aromatic fruits and thick, fragrant rind. The fruits typically have rough yellow skin, a substantial white pith, and relatively little juicy pulp. Citron is traditionally grown for its candied peel, preserves, desserts, and culinary uses. This evergreen citrus tree grows best in warm climates with full sunlight, fertile soil, and good drainage.
Produces distinctive citron fruits with thick, fragrant yellow skin and an attractive textured surface.
Features substantial white pith and aromatic rind commonly used in candied fruit and traditional recipes.
Develops into an evergreen citrus tree with fragrant flowers, green foliage, and thorny branches.
The fragrant peel is valued for preserves, marmalade, baking, desserts, and other culinary preparations.
| Scientific Name | Citrus medica |
| Common Name | Traditional Citron; Citron; Etrog |
| Plant Family | Rutaceae |
| Seed Type | Fruit Tree Seeds |
| Growth Habit | Evergreen, branching citrus tree or large shrub |
| Fruit Color | Yellow when mature |
| Fruit Characteristics | Large fruits with thick aromatic rind and substantial white pith |
| Flower Color | White to pinkish-white |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Generally Zones 9–11; frost protection may be required |
| Planting Season | Spring or during warm weather after frost danger has passed |
| Seed Starting | Fresh seeds in containers with well-drained potting medium |
| Germination Time | Approximately 2–3 weeks under suitable conditions; may vary |
| Germination Temperature | Warm conditions, approximately 70–85°F |
| Sunlight | Full Sun |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil |
| Watering | Regular watering during active growth; avoid waterlogging |
| Mature Plant Size | Approximately 8–15 feet tall, depending on growing conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 10–15 feet, depending on mature growth and pruning |
| Fruit Production | Varies with seedling maturity, climate, and growing conditions |
| Plant Uses | Home Orchards, Container Growing, Candied Peel, Preserves, and Culinary Uses |
Bring the distinctive beauty of Traditional Citron to your garden with its evergreen foliage, fragrant flowers, and large aromatic yellow fruits. Known for its thick edible rind and traditional culinary uses, this citrus tree is a valuable addition to suitable warm-climate gardens and home orchards.
Find helpful information about growing Traditional Citron from seeds, fruit development, and its distinctive culinary uses.
To grow a citron tree from seeds, rinse fresh seeds thoroughly and sow them approximately 1/4–1/2 inch deep in a well-drained potting mixture. Keep the growing medium warm and consistently moist without waterlogging. Germination commonly takes around 2–3 weeks under suitable conditions. Transplant healthy seedlings into larger pots as they develop.
Citron and regular lemons are different citrus species. Traditional citron (Citrus medica) produces large fruits with a particularly thick, aromatic rind and relatively little juice. Regular lemons (Citrus limon) generally have thinner peels and much juicier pulp. Citron is especially valued for its fragrant peel, candied rind, and preserves.
A citron tree grown from seeds may take several years to reach fruit-bearing maturity. The exact time depends on growing conditions, seedling development, and climate. Seed-grown trees may also differ from the parent plant in fruit size, shape, and other characteristics. Grafted or cutting-grown trees are generally preferred when consistent fruit characteristics are important.