What are kumquats?
Q: What are kumquats?
A: Kumquats are a type of small fruit-bearing tree whose edible fruit is similar to other citrus fruits but smaller in size.
Q: What do kumquat trees look like?
A: Kumquat trees are slow-growing evergreen shrubs or small trees, ranging from 2.5-4.5 meters tall, with dense branches. They may have small thorns, and their leaves are dark glossy green.
Q: Where did kumquats originate from?
A: Kumquats originally came from China and have been cultivated there and in Japan for a long time. They were first introduced to Europe in 1846 by Robert Fortune, a collector for the London Horticultural Society.
Q: How hardy are kumquat trees compared to other citrus plants?
A: Kumquat trees are much hardier than other citrus plants, such as oranges.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for 'Nagami' kumquat trees to grow?
A: The 'Nagami' kumquat needs a hot summer, ranging from 25°C(77°F) to 38°C(100.4°F), but can withstand frost down to about -10°C(14°F).
Q: Where do 'Nagami' kumquat trees grow well?
A: 'Nagami' kumquat trees grow well in the tea regions of China, where the climate is too cold for other citrus fruits, even the Mikan (also known as the Satsuma) orange.
Q: When were kumquats first mentioned in literature?
A: Kumquats were first mentioned in literature in the 12th century.
