Citrus hybrid (Citrus wilsonii) ICHANG LEMON

The Ichang Lemon is a result of crossing a hybrid called "Ichang papeda" (Citrus ichangensis) with a pomelo (Citrus maxima). It originates from China, where it is called Shangyuan, meaning "fragrant ball". This unique hybrid variety is known for its large, aromatic, and incredibly juicy fruit It is one of the most reliably cold-hardy citrus trees out there, making it possible to grow further north than many other citrus varieties. This makes it a great choice for those living in cooler climates who still want to enjoy homegrown citrus fruits.

Origin: identified in China at the beginning of the 20th century by F.N. Meyer, botanist and explorer
Crossing scheme: Ichang Papeda (Citrus ichangensis) x Pomelo (Citrus maxima), resulting in Citrus wilsonii
Vigour: fast-growing, medium-sized sprawling tree with large, broad evergreen leaves and thorny branches. The tree is extremely beautiful, resembling a grapefruit. An adult tree usually reaches a height of 2.5-3 m. The Shangyuan variety is known for being less thorny and less subject to alternation (uneven harvests).
Rootstocks: Carrizo citrange, C-35 citrange
Blossom: self-fertile. Usually blooms during spring time. To ensure higher fruit production, hand pollination with a small brush and transferring pollen from flower to flower is recommended.
Fruits: produces clusters of large, grapefruit-like fruits. The fruit is big, on average 300 g, round, bright yellow to deep yellow. When overripe, they taste like grapefruit and are quite edible with sugar. They have a bumpy rind hales a delightful fragrance. The zest is an exceptional condiment, used for centuries as a rare perfume by the Chinese.
Flesh: yellowish-green, extremely juicy, acidic and aromatic with many large seeds. The abundant juice of good quality is used in beverages and culinary applications. Each fruit produces up to half a cup of juice. It can be used as a lemon but also cooked as the Yuzu. For its generous juiciness, it is much appreciated for making refreshing drinks, jams, ice creams and pastries.
Flavor: the juice is tart and tangy, similar to a lemon, but with a slight grapefruit-like bitterness
Harvest season: from November to February. However, it tends to hold on well on the tree. Bearing age 1-2 years after planting. Fruits ripen reliably even in cooler climates.
Yield: 20+ fruit / tree
Disease resistance: no specific pest and disease problems have been noted. Indoors, citrus can have mites or aphids. Watch carefully for any problems and treat with an insecticidal soap or wash them off.
Frost resistance: Ichang Lemon is cold-hardy, can withstand temperatures down to -12°C and below without permanent damage, as long as it is protected from the wind. USDA Zone 8b.
Planting and care: Chang Lemons thrive in full sun (6-8 hours daily) with well-draining slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. They require consistent watering, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Fertilize with a balanced citrus fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Prune in early spring to remove dead or damaged branches. Container Growing: If growing in a pot, choose a container with good drainage and repot every 2-3 years. In the winter, place your plant in a well-lit room.