Calamondin, Citrus x microcarpa, is a small citrus often grown in containers. The NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox says to grow it in full sun (six or more hours of direct sun a day) and high humidity, in fertile, moist, well-drained soil, and that in colder winter areas it is best grown in a container and overwintered indoors. It says the tree blooms in spring with fragrant white flowers and repeats the bloom four to five times in the season.
Light, humidity and soil
NC State recommends full sun and high humidity, with fertile, moist, well-drained soil that is high in organic matter, at a pH of 6.0 or higher. It gives no watering schedule. Indoors, that means the brightest window available and attention to dry winter air; see Low Humidity Bud Drop for how humidity affects flowering plants in general.
Flowers and fruit
NC State says the tree blooms in spring with fragrant white flowers and repeats the bloom four to five times during the season, with blooms and fruit sometimes on the tree at once. The fruit is round, about 1 to 1¾ inches across, turns from green to orange, has a thin, fragrant peel and acidic pulp, and can take up to a year to mature.
Pests and diseases
The page lists spider mites, scale insects, citrus leafminer and aphids among the insect problems, and citrus canker, sooty mold, citrus greening and root rot among the diseases. For how those pests behave on houseplants, see Jasmine Pests Indoors, which uses the Colorado State houseplant guide.
Hardiness and what is not covered
NC State says sources disagree on zones, with some saying 10 to 11, some 9b to 11 and others 8b to 11, and its own profile lists 8b to 11b. It does not give indoor temperature, feeding or pot-size advice, so this page does not either.
Calamondin and pets
I could not confirm an ASPCA entry for calamondin, and the NC State page does not address toxicity. The ASPCA lists lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit as toxic to dogs and cats; see Are Citrus Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?. Treating calamondin with caution is an inference, not an ASPCA statement.
Frequently asked questions
How much sun does calamondin need?
NC State says full sun, defined as six or more hours of direct sun a day, and high humidity.
Can calamondin live indoors?
NC State says in colder winter areas it is best grown in a container and overwintered indoors.
How long does the fruit take to ripen?
NC State says it can take up to a year to mature.
Is calamondin safe for cats and dogs?
Unconfirmed. See the pet guide linked above.
Sources read for this page
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page gives general guidance; see the Disclaimer. Back to the Citrus hub.
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