Introducting Citrus medica 'Etrog' – Sacred, Rare & Aromatic
 
A deeply symbolic and strikingly unique citrus, the Etrog citron has been cultivated for centuries for both its cultural significance and its powerful fragrance. It is one of the world’s oldest cultivated citrus species.
Known for its large, knobbly fruit and rich, aromatic rind, the Etrog is most famously used in Jewish tradition during the festival of Sukkot, symbolising purity and connection to nature.
Beyond its ceremonial use, this rare citrus is a stunning addition to any subtropical collection. Its thick rind is perfect for candied peel, liqueurs, and infused oils or preserves, and the tree itself adds structure and fragrance to your garden or glasshouse.
Beyond tradition uses in Jewish rituals during Sukkot, the Etrog is also a beautiful and rare addition to any citrus collection. Etrog trees are slow-growing and elegant, producing large, knobbly fruits with thick, aromatic rinds and little juice. While not a juicing citrus, its zest and peel are prized for candied citrus, infusions, liqueurs, and preserved specialties.
This variety prefers a warm, sheltered spot, ideally in a pot or greenhouse in cooler regions. Like all citrus, it thrives in free-draining soil, full sun, and regular feeding during the growing season. In New Zealand, it will do best in a frost-free environment, or with winter protection in colder zones.
 
Uses:
Culinary: Candied peel, zest, liqueurs, marmalades
Aromatic: Infuse syrups, oils, or spirits
Cultural: Traditional use in Jewish ritual during Sukkot
Ornamental: Unique fruit and lush evergreen foliage
 
Growing Considerations for Etrog Citron (Citrus medica)

Sunlight:
Full sun — at least 6–8 hours per day.
In cooler or cloudier regions, consider placing in a sun trap or near a north-facing wall.
 
Temperature & Climate:
Frost-sensitive — Etrog is less cold-tolerant than many other citrus types.
Ideal for sheltered microclimates, greenhouses, or growing in pots that can be moved.
Protect from cold winds and frosts with frost cloth, or bring indoors in winter if container-grown.

Soil:
Needs free-draining, fertile soil.
Use a citrus mix or a blend with organic compost, sand/pumice, and perlite for drainage.
pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (around 6–7).

Watering:
Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring to autumn), but avoid soggy conditions.
Allow top few centimetres of soil to dry between waterings in cooler months.
Good drainage is critical — roots are prone to rot if left in wet soil.
 
Feeding:
Citrus are heavy feeders.
Use a balanced citrus fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
Supplement with trace elements (e.g., magnesium, iron, zinc) to prevent yellowing leaves.
 
Pruning:
Light pruning to shape and remove any suckers or weak branches.
Thin out interior to promote airflow and sunlight penetration.
 
Pests & Issues:
Watch for aphids, scale insects, leaf miner, and mites.
May need protection against snails/slugs when young.
Apply Neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
 
Container Growing:
Ideal for pots (minimum 35–45cm wide for mature trees).
Use a terracotta pot for better breathability.
Repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and prevent rootbound conditions.
 
Flowering & Fruiting:
Fragrant white blooms, often more than once per year in warm climates.
Fruit takes up to 10 months to mature.
Best results when protected from cold, and fertilised regularly.
 
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