Calamondin Orange Plant Care
Citrus microcarpa Bunge
Calamansi, also known as calamondin, Philippine lime, or Philippine lemon, is a citrus hybrid cultivated predominantly in the Philippines. It is native to the Philippines, parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, as well as Taiwan, and parts of southern China.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun
55–85°F
50–70%
What Is the Calamondin Orange?
Calamondin Orange (Citrus microcarpa) belongs to the Rutaceae family within the Citrus genus. Calamondin Orange is native to the Philippines, parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, as well as Taiwan, and parts of southern China. Calamondin Orange is also known as Calamondin, Philippine Lime.
Calamondin Orange displays a small to medium-sized evergreen tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Calamondin Orange produces fragrant white flowers with waxy petals.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Calamondin Orange?
Citrus microcarpa requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Calamondin Orange Need?
Calamondin Orange thrives in full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 500–1000 lux. Avoid placing Calamondin Orange in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun
500–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Calamondin Orange Prefer?
Citrus microcarpa grows best at temperatures between 55°F and 85°F. Calamondin Orange prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
55–85°F
Humidity
50–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Calamondin Orange?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Calamondin Orange to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Calamondin Orange?
Repot young plants annually, older plants every 2-3 years. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Calamondin Orange?
Calamondin Orange can be propagated through seeds, grafting, air-layering. Similar propagation techniques also apply to orange tree plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Calamondin Orange Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Calamondin Orange?
Calamondin Orange is susceptible to citrus leafminer, citrus whitefly, aphids, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Calamondin Orange Need?
Calamondin Orange grows outdoors in USDA Zone 8b – 12b. Native to the Philippines, parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, as well as Taiwan, and parts of southern China, Calamondin Orange is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Calamondin Orange as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 8b – 12b
Keep exploring plants
Calamondin Orange is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Citrus genus — compare its care with other Citrus species on PlantoScan.
Calamondin Orange thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
More Citrus Species
Other Citrus species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
Identify Plants Like the
Calamondin Orange Instantly
Scan any plant with your iPhone camera and get instant ID, care tips, watering reminders, and disease checks — all in one app.
Free
to download
89%
accuracy
5.0
App Store
200K+
species