Citrus medica, commonly known as Citron, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the subtropical and tropical regions of the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, particularly in India and the Malay Archipelago. It is often found in the understory of forested areas and in partially cleared areas where it can receive ample sunlight. This species is known for its large, fragrant citrus fruit with a thick, bumpy rind, which is one of the original citrus fruits from which other citrus types have developed. The Citron typically reaches a height of 8 to 15 feet (2 to 5 meters) with a sprawling habit, irregular straggling branches, stiff twigs, and long spines at the leaf axils. The evergreen leaves are green, lemon-scented, slightly serrate, and ovate-lanceolate to ovate-elliptic, measuring 2.5 to 7.0 inches long. Petioles are usually wingless or with minor wings. The flowers, which vary in color from purplish for acidic varieties to white-yellowish for sweet ones, are clustered and bloom several times a year, indicating the plant’s vigorous growth and lack of a true dormancy period.

Citron is valued for its unique fruit, which is used in culinary and medicinal applications, particularly for its rind. It is also grown ornamentally for its fragrant leaves and attractive flowers. In cultivation, it requires full sun, medium water, and well-drained soils. While it is frost-sensitive, it can be grown in containers in cooler climates and moved indoors during cold weather. The Citron’s sensitivity to frost and its somewhat erratic growth pattern can be challenging for gardeners. It is not commonly used in mass plantings but rather as a specimen tree or in a mixed border for its unique appearance and fragrant properties.CC BY-SA 4.0