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Yuzu Bonsai (Citrus junos)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Yuzu Bonsai

Intermediate

Citrus junos

Indispensable citrus in Japanese cuisine. Takes long from seed but grafted stock fruits in a few years. Fragrant flowers and yellow fruits are enjoyable.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Lifespan
30+ years (as bonsai)
Size
20-60cm (bonsai size)
Watering
Fertilizer (regular)

About

Citrus junos, the yuzu (Yuzu in Japanese), is an evergreen citrus tree thought to originate in the upper Yangtze River region of China and widely cultivated in Japan and Korea for over a millennium. Its intensely aromatic rind and sour juice are indispensable in Japanese cuisine, used in dressings, sauces, sweets, and the midwinter ritual of the 'yuzu bath' (yuzu-yu) on the winter solstice. The proverb 'yuzu blooms in nine years from seed' reflects its long juvenile period, though grafted specimens fruit within a few years. White flowers in early summer and large yellow fruits in autumn provide both fragrance and visual interest in bonsai. The branches bear sharp thorns requiring careful handling.

Lifespan of the Yuzu Bonsai

The Yuzu Bonsai lives 30+ years (as bonsai).

Size of the Yuzu Bonsai

The Yuzu Bonsai grows to 20-60cm (bonsai size).

Basic Info

Origin

China (upper Yangtze River region)

Lifespan

30+ years (as bonsai)

Size

20-60cm (bonsai size)

Temperature

-5〜35℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Fertilizer (regular)

Growing Tips

Placement

Full sun outdoors. Protect from frost in winter

Watering

Water thoroughly when topsoil dries. Don't let dry during fruiting

Styling

Cut back leggy shoots. Thin fruits if too many

Notes

Sharp thorns. Susceptible to swallowtail butterfly caterpillar damage

IntermediateFruitingCitrusFragrant

Yuzu Bonsai FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Yuzu Bonsai?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the lifespan of Yuzu Bonsai?
A

The average lifespan of Yuzu Bonsai is 30+ years (as bonsai). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Yuzu Bonsai get?
A

The mature size of Yuzu Bonsai is 20-60cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Yuzu Bonsai?
A

Yuzu Bonsai: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (regular). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Yuzu Bonsai?
A

The price of Yuzu Bonsai varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Growing Specifications

USDA Zone
7–10

Sources: Gardenia.net: Citrus x junos (Yuzu)

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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Citrus junos Siebold ex Tanaka

Synonyms: Citrus × sphaerocarpa Y.Nakaj. ex H.Ohba, Citrus × tamurana Takahashi, Citrus × sudachi Shirai, Citrus × yuko Tanaka, Citrus × hsiangyuan Tanaka, Citrus × sechen Kokaya

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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