Taichang Hybrid

Taichang Hybrid

(Citrus sp)

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

Taichang hybrid (Citrus sp.) is a rare Chinese hybrid originating in Sichuan Province, selected in an experimental collection to combine hardiness and flavor quality. Its tree hardiness reaches 10°F (−12°C), making it suitable for in-ground growing in USDA zone 8a. The tree reaches 6 to 13 ft (2 to 4 m) with an upright, semi-thorny habit, aromatic evergreen foliage, and fragrant white flowers. Its yellow-orange fruit, medium-sized and thin-skinned, ripens in winter and offers a sweet-sour aromatic juice with complex notes blending Asian citrus and floral accents. A little-known variety for collectors of rare Asian citrus. The precise botanical classification remains to be confirmed because it is a hybrid whose exact parents have not been identified with certainty. Graft onto Poncirus trifoliata, south-facing wall, well-drained soil.

Identity

OriginAsia

Genetic originHybrid

USDA zone8a

Cold hardiness10°F (−12°C)

Fruit cold hardiness25°F (−4°C)

GrowthVigorous

Height10 ft (3 m)

HarvestNovember, December

SeedsModerate

UsesJuice, Savory cooking

FlavorsSweet, Tart, Slight bitterness, Balanced

History & Description

Origin

This hybrid is supposed to be a cross between Citrus taiwanica (Nansho Daidai) and an Ichang lemon (Citrus wilsonii), combining hardy Asian genetics.

Tree description

The tree has a graceful, slightly weeping habit and shows good vigor. It is hardy down to about 10°F (−12°C).

Fruit quality

It produces small, round, yellow fruit. Its particularity is its skin: the albedo and zest are mild and sweet, while the flesh is juicy.

Flavor and ornamental interest

It is a fruit often eaten whole, like a kumquat. The contrast between the sweet skin and the pomelo-like notes of the flesh creates a very interesting flavor balance (“sweet and sour”).