Geographical origin: Hybrid of Citrus Sinensis x Citrus Deliciosa.
Adult dimensions: Height up to 6 m, spread up to 4 m.
Foliage: Evergreen.
Type of soil: Well drained, neutral to acid.
Climate: Hardy to -2°C.
Site: Partial shade to full sun.
Characteristics and uses:
The Clementina is a shrub with a very fragrant blossom which can be grown in a container or in the ground in areas which have milder winters.
It produces juicy, sweet and tangy fruits ready to pick as from October. They will be seedless only if the flowers have not been pollinated by other Citruses varieties.
In order to get good yields, it needs heat in summer (20 to 30°C) and coolness in winter (2 to 15°C), as the fruits only become orange when the temperature drops.
The Clementina shrub has to be protected from cold in winter (pot and foliage), as it can start losing its leaves as soon as temperatures fall below -2°C. However, this protection is only necessary if the temperature does not go up during the day.
In the coldest areas, shelter your Clementina shrub in a conservatory, or a non-heated room during winter.
Plant them now: the shortest way to your plate is through your garden!
Looking after advice:
Watering: As Citruses do not like dryness it is important to water them regularly, but not abundantly. In summer, water every day if necessary, in winter water once or twice a week.
Fertilizer: From March to October, give it a suitable Citrus fertilizer once a month.
Pruning: Prune regularly in the spring and in summer to encourage ramification and keep it in the wished for shape.