Yuzu Citron

Yuzu Citron

(Citrus junos 'Citron')

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

Yuzu Citron (Citrus junos 'Citron') is a particular selection of Japanese yuzu, a hardy citrus among the most cold-resistant. Originally from China and acclimated in Japan for over a thousand years, it withstands temperatures down to 10°F (−12°C) on the tree, which makes it suitable for in-ground growing in USDA zones 8a and 8b. The vigorous tree reaches 10 to 13 ft (3 to 4 m) at maturity, with a slightly spreading habit and evergreen foliage. Its golden yellow, bumpy, thick-skinned fruits ripen in October to November and offer a very tart juice with unique aromas blending mandarin, grapefruit, and orange blossom. Sought after by French pastry chefs since Pierre Hermé, it is used as zest, juice, confit, or marinade. Must be grafted onto Poncirus trifoliata to maximize hardiness. Prefers a south-facing wall, well-drained soil, and generous winter mulching.

Identity

OriginJapan

Genetic originSelection or Yuzu × Lemon hybrid

USDA zone8a

Cold hardiness10°F (−12°C)

Fruit cold hardiness25°F (−4°C)

GrowthVigorous

Height13 ft (4 m)

HarvestOctober, November, December

SeedsMany

UsesJuice, Preserves, Savory cooking, Sweet cooking

FlavorsSour, Highly aromatic, Sharp acidity

History & Description

Origin

'Yuzu Citron' is a specific selection (or natural hybrid) that differs from the classic yuzu (Citrus junos) by morphological characteristics approaching those of the lemon, while keeping the hardy genetics of yuzu.

Tree description

It is a vigorous, very thorny tree with an upright habit. It has great cold resistance, comparable to other yuzus, and often shows earlier and more generous fruiting.

Fruit quality

The fruit is often more elongated or pear-shaped than standard yuzu, with a thick, bumpy lemon-yellow skin. It is particularly rich in juice.

Flavor and ornamental interest

It offers an interesting compromise: it produces much more juice than classic yuzu, with a frank acidity close to lemon but perfumed by the typical wild mandarin and spice notes of yuzu.