Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tachibana orange
IntermediateCitrus × tachibana
Japan's wild native citrus, an evergreen bearing fragrant white flowers in early summer and flattened yellow fruits 2.5–3 cm across in winter. Famous as the 'Ukon no tachibana' at the Kyoto Imperial Palace; wild plants are nationally Near Threatened.
About
Tachibana (Citrus × tachibana) is Japan's wild native citrus and the northernmost member of the genus. It grows in coastal evergreen broadleaf forest in Honshu west of Aichi, Shikoku, Kyushu and the Ryukyus, and also in Taiwan. An evergreen small tree 2–6 m tall with sharp thorns, it has leaves 4–8 cm long dotted with oil glands. In May–June it bears white flowers about 2 cm across, and flowers, fruit and leaves all have a yuzu-like scent. The flattened fruits, 2.5–3 cm across, ripen yellow from October to December and may hang on until the next flowering. Known from the 'Ukon no tachibana' before the Shishinden at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and from the tachibana family crest, it appears in the Kojiki and Man'yoshu as an auspicious tree. Buyers should know that most plants sold as tachibana are koorai-tachibana, originating in Hagi (Yamaguchi) and Jeju Island, with larger, bumpier fruit. Gardeners' 'tachibana' also often means karatachibana (Ardisia crispa), an unrelated red-berried plant. A warm-climate tree with poor cold tolerance, its natural northern limit is said to be Numazu, Shizuoka. It thrives in heat and humidity, has few pests and fruits reliably even with little care. Specialist shops sell it as bonsai in small numbers.
Size of the Tachibana orange
The Tachibana orange grows to 2–6 m tall.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (Honshu west of Aichi, Shikoku, Kyushu, Ryukyus) and Taiwan
Lifespan
Little data on lifespan
Size
2–6 m tall
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (in the growing season; little bonsai-specific data)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
An evergreen of warm coastal forests. Grow in a warm, sunny spot and protect from winter cold
Watering
In pots, water thoroughly when the surface dries; little bonsai-specific guidance exists
Temperature & overwintering
A warm-climate tree with poor cold tolerance (native northern limit: Numazu, Shizuoka). Protect from frost and cold wind in winter; it thrives in heat and humidity
Soil & repotting
Prefers soft, very free-draining soil
Pruning & styling
Branches spread and thicken readily, so prune regularly to keep it small. Mind the sharp thorns
Pests & cautions
Few pests; fruits reliably with little care. Most plants sold as tachibana are koorai-tachibana. Wild plants are Near Threatened—buy cultivated stock only
Tachibana orange FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Tachibana orange?
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 large does Tachibana orange get?
The mature size of Tachibana orange is 2–6 m tall. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Tachibana orange?
Tachibana orange: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (in the growing season; little bonsai-specific data). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Tachibana orange?
The price of Tachibana orange 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
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. However, wild tachibana is listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the Ministry of the Environment Red List and appears on prefectural red lists such as Aichi's. Choose cultivated plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search) / Aichi Prefecture Red Data Book: Citrus tachibana (PDF)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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