Source: Wikimedia Commons
Hong Kong kumquat
IntermediateFortunella hindsii
A tiny kumquat from southern China including Hong Kong, bearing orange fruits about 1 cm across along its branches. The fruit has almost no flesh and is not for eating, but through winter the plant looks like a miniature orange tree.
About
Kinzu, the Hong Kong kumquat, is a member of the kumquat group in the citrus family, also known in Japan as mame-kinkan or hime-kinkan. It is native to southern China, growing wild in places such as Hong Kong, and is grown in warm regions as an ornamental, houseplant and bonsai. Small white five-petalled flowers appear in early to mid summer, and fruits about 1 cm across ripen from green to orange in autumn and winter, lasting until around February. The fruit, among the smallest of any citrus, has almost no flesh and two or three seeds, and is bitter and sour—not for eating. It is sold as something quite different from the fruiting kumquat because the fruit is so much smaller. Long treated as a separate species in Fortunella, it is listed in GBIF as a synonym of Citrus japonica, while recent phylogenetic work has suggested it is a distinct species. Wild Hong Kong kumquat is tetraploid, and a diploid line with slightly larger fruit is also known. It is somewhat tender and slow to break bud in spring, but it roots easily from cuttings and layers and buds back well, so it is easy to train. Long exposure to rain encourages disease, so shelter it in the rainy season. It is widely sold as a fruiting mini bonsai.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern China (including Hong Kong)
Lifespan
Little data on lifespan
Size
Small evergreen shrub (bonsai: mini to shohin)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (continuously May–October, except the rainy season)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Loves sun: spring to autumn in a bright, airy spot. Move under cover during long rainy spells
Watering
Very thirsty—even brief drying weakens it. 1–2 times daily in spring, 3–4 in summer, once in winter, watering while still slightly moist
Temperature & overwintering
Tender and warmth-loving. It can winter under eaves if kept from frost and drying wind; protect small plants early, as late protection delays spring growth
Soil & repotting
Needs free-draining soil. It dislikes disturbance—repot in May–June once warm, without heavy root pruning
Fertilizer
Hungry feeder; leaves yellow when underfed. Feed steadily May–October except the rainy season, including during flowering and fruiting
Pruning & styling
Pinch mid-May to mid-September; do major pruning and wiring in warm months (late May–September). Remove fruit after display; even mature trees are best fruited every other year
Pests & cautions
Around the rainy season diseases such as scab and canker appear—keep it out of the rain. Watch for swallowtail caterpillars and leaf miners
Hong Kong kumquat FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Hong Kong kumquat?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow should I water and fertilize Hong Kong kumquat?
Hong Kong kumquat: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (continuously May–October, except the rainy season). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Hong Kong kumquat?
The price of Hong Kong kumquat varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Fortunella hindsii (Champ. ex Benth.) Swingle
Synonyms: Citrus hindsii (Champ. ex Benth.) Govaerts, Atalantia hindsii (Champ. ex Benth.) Oliv., Sclerostylis hindsii Champ. ex Benth.
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF · GBIF: Citrus japonica（受理名）
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices and not regulated for domestic sale in Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search) / Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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