About

Citrus x aurantium 'Bigaradier Apepu' is a spiny sour orange tree characterized by its rounded canopy and mid-green foliage measuring 7-10 cm in length. During the late spring through summer, it produces fragrant white flowers, each about 2 cm wide, which may appear individually, in pairs, or in clusters. These blooms give way to yellow-orange fruit that is slightly flattened or spherical, typically ranging from 5-7 cm in diameter.

About the genus

Citrus consists mainly of evergreen shrubs and trees, which are often armed with spines. They feature simple, leathery leaves that release a pleasing fragrance, typically borne on winged petioles. The plants produce aromatic flowers that are usually white or have a hint of pink, which are succeeded by sizable, juicy fruits.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Plant type
Fruit Edible, Shrubs, Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Fragrance
Flower, Foliage, Fruit
Toxicity
Fruit harmful to skin with sunlight/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow as a conservatory or greenhouse plant, in a container of peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit, in full light, with shade from hot sun. In growth during spring and summer, water freely, and mist daily. Apply fertilisers formulated for citrus, throughout the year, following the manufacturer’s instructions; water sparingly in winter. See citrus cultivation for further information
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed (seedlings will not come true to type) or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to citrus red spider mite and glasshouse red spider mite, soft scale and fluted scale, aphids, caterpillars and mealybugs under glass
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free