Fukushu Kumquat

Fukushu Kumquat

(Citrus obovata 'Fukushu')

Documented by Léo — grown in the ground, USDA zone 8b

Fukushu kumquat (Citrus obovata 'Fukushu'), also called Changshou kumquat, is a Japanese variety that produces larger, sweeter fruit than classic kumquats. The hardiness reference retained for the tree is 14°F (−10°C), to be read with the conditions given in this entry. The compact shrub reaches 6 to 8 ft (2 to 2.5 m), with a rounded habit and glossy evergreen foliage. Its light orange, obovate fruit, 1.5 to 2 in (4 to 5 cm) long, has a thin, mild, fragrant skin and a pulp that recalls a mandarin more than the traditional kumquat. A flavor balanced between sweetness and acidity, excellent eaten whole or as juice. Abundant, fragrant spring flowering and a very ornamental habit. Choose a rootstock suited to the soil and climate, without attributing a fixed hardiness gain to it. Plant against a south-facing wall; well-drained soil is essential.

Identity

OriginChina, Japan

Genetic originBotanical species Fortunella obovata

USDA zone8b

Cold hardiness14°F (−10°C)

Fruit cold hardiness25°F (−4°C)

GrowthModerate

Height10 ft (3 m)

HarvestJanuary, February, March, April, November, December

SeedsFew

UsesCandied fruit, Fresh eating, Preserves

FlavorsSweet, Tart, Balanced

History & Description

Origin

Also called 'Changshou', Fukushu kumquat comes from China and is very popular in Japan as a good-luck plant. It is often given at celebrations to symbolize longevity and prosperity.

Tree description

This tree forms a small compact bush with beautiful dark green, broad, glossy foliage. It is particularly floriferous and decorative, adapting perfectly to pot culture thanks to its naturally harmonious habit.

Fruit quality

The fruit is larger than that of other kumquats, with a characteristic bell or oval (obovate) shape. Its skin is smooth, thin, and a lovely luminous orange at maturity.

Flavor and ornamental interest

Fukushu is prized for its juicy flesh and its perfect balance: a very sweet skin and a pleasantly tart pulp. It is excellent as an eating fruit or turned into an exceptional jam.

Hardiness — October 8, 2026 review: The reference is set at 14°F (−10°C). Vessières gives 14°F (−10°C) in its listing and 14 to 10°F (−10 to −12°C) in its text; Agrumes de Provence advertises 10°F (−12°C). The main value stays cautious in view of this gap. Fukushu and Changshou refer to the same kumquat in the UCR collection. These temperatures apply to a mature, established, acclimated tree during a one-off frost; they guarantee neither the absence of damage nor a harvest. Wind, freeze duration, humidity, and pot culture change the risk.

Fruit resistance: The fruit reference already on record remains indicative: this review did not establish a new experimental threshold specific to this material. It is not deduced from the tree temperature.

Hardiness references: Agrumerie Vessières — Fukushu; Agrumes de Provence — Fukushu; UCR — Changshou/Fukushu (accessed October 8, 2026).