A cold-hardy deciduous citrus shrub, Poncirus trifoliata Flying Dragon’ is as ornamental as it is practical. This distinctive dwarf form features curving, contorted stems and dramatic twisted thorns — making it ideal for use as a striking specimen plant or an impenetrable security hedge.
In spring, it bears small, lightly scented white blossoms, followed by fuzzy, orange-yellow fruit about the size of a ping pong ball. The fruit is filled with seeds and yields around 20% juice. Though the juice is sour, it makes an excellent flavouring, while the peel — bitter yet aromatic — is prized for marmalades and candied peel. Rich in natural pectin, it requires no added gelling agent for jellies. Even small trees can produce hundreds of fruit each season. Its trifoliate green leaves turn a brilliant orange in autumn before dropping to reveal the sculptural, twisted branches that make this tree so unique. The slow-growing Flying Dragon is ideal as a security barrier or privacy hedge, ornamental feature tree, bonsai subject or garden accent. Prune hard to maintain hedge height and density, or selectively prune to showcase its striking, contorted stems.
Soil: Well-drained soil.
Conditions: Full sun. Cold tolerant as it will survive extended periods of snow. Heat and coastal tolerant.
Size: Height 4m x width 3m
In spring, it bears small, lightly scented white blossoms, followed by fuzzy, orange-yellow fruit about the size of a ping pong ball. The fruit is filled with seeds and yields around 20% juice. Though the juice is sour, it makes an excellent flavouring, while the peel — bitter yet aromatic — is prized for marmalades and candied peel. Rich in natural pectin, it requires no added gelling agent for jellies. Even small trees can produce hundreds of fruit each season. Its trifoliate green leaves turn a brilliant orange in autumn before dropping to reveal the sculptural, twisted branches that make this tree so unique. The slow-growing Flying Dragon is ideal as a security barrier or privacy hedge, ornamental feature tree, bonsai subject or garden accent. Prune hard to maintain hedge height and density, or selectively prune to showcase its striking, contorted stems.
Soil: Well-drained soil.
Conditions: Full sun. Cold tolerant as it will survive extended periods of snow. Heat and coastal tolerant.
Size: Height 4m x width 3m