Shenguyen Ichanglemon

(Citrus wilsonii 'Shenguyen')

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

Shenguyen Ichanglemon (Citrus wilsonii 'Shenguyen') is a Chinese selection of the Ichanglemon, a hybrid between the Ichang papeda and a primitive lemon, originating in the Shenguyen region in the mountains of southwestern China. Its tree hardiness reaches 10°F (−12°C), making it suitable for in-ground growing in USDA zone 8a. The vigorous tree reaches 10 to 16 ft (3 to 5 m) with an upright, thorny habit, evergreen foliage with large winged petioles, and fragrant white spring flowers. Its yellow, round, bumpy fruit, medium to large at 7 to 12 oz (200 to 350 g), with thick, rough skin, ripens in winter and offers a very fragrant, aromatic sour juice evoking a wild lemon with grapefruit notes. Used in traditional Asian cooking and in confectionery. Graft onto Poncirus trifoliata.

Identity

OriginChina

Genetic originHybrid Citrus ichangensis × Citrus maxima

USDA zone8a

Cold hardiness10°F (−12°C)

Fruit cold hardiness25°F (−4°C)

GrowthVigorous

Height13 ft (4 m)

HarvestOctober, November, December

SeedsMany

UsesLiqueur, Preserves, Savory cooking

FlavorsSour, Sharp acidity, Highly aromatic

History & Description

Origin

Shenguyen Ichanglemon is an old and fascinating variety from China, where it is known as 'Shangjuan' or 'Xiangyuan'. It is a hardy citrus that bears witness to the genetic diversity of Asia’s mountain regions, often grown in collection gardens for its cold resistance.

Tree description

This tree stands out for its exceptional vigor and its large, highly ornamental leaves, lance-shaped and winged, typical of papeda hybrids. Its habit is upright and it can reach an impressive spread, giving the garden structure.

Fruit quality

The fruit looks like a large lemon or a pale yellow grapefruit, with thick, bumpy skin. It is rich in essential oils and gives off a powerful fragrance as soon as it is rubbed.

Flavor and ornamental interest

In the kitchen, it is an excellent hardy substitute for lemon. Although not very juicy, its juice is sour and its zest is very aromatic, perfect for cooking and pastry. It is a top-choice ornamental tree for cold zones.