Kumquat
Citrus japonica
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Kumquat
Kumquat (Citrus japonica) is a compact evergreen citrus shrub or small tree native to China, producing small oval fruits with edible sweet rind and tart flesh. It is popular as an ornamental container plant and for fresh eating, preserves, and garnishes. Starting at $39.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Growth slows as temperatures cool.
Retains foliage through winter. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Kumquat grows best in full sun (6-8 hours) in NE Florida. It tolerates some shade but fruit production and quality decrease. Choose a warm, wind-protected location to minimize freeze risk in zone 9b.
Water deeply when the top inch of soil dries out; kumquats are moderately drought-tolerant once established. Avoid waterlogging — use well-drained soil and keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent foot rot.
Grow in well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Apply a citrus-specific fertilizer with micronutrients every 6 weeks from February through October. Kumquat is among the most cold-hardy citrus (tolerates 16–20°F) and is reliable throughout zone 9b; fruit ripens October through March.
Similar needs
Loquat
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
American Persimmon
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Red Mulberry
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Ageratum
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Alyssum
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Amethyst Flower
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Kumquat a good plant for St. Augustine?
Kumquat is a fruit tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 8-15 feet × 6-10 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.