Description
Citrus sudachi
Sudachi is an excellent cold hardy citrus. A cross between Yuzu and a wild mandarin, it has small round fruits with a sharp, aromatic flavor highly prized in Japanese cuisine. Sudachi are slightly more juicy and less seedy than Yuzu and have shorter thorns. Most notably for those looking for an immediate harvest, they will fruit prolifically right away, whereas Yuzu can take multiple years to bear fruit. They are usually harvested when green for best flavor, used for garnishes, drinks, sauces, zest, and marinades. They will turn deep orange when fully ripe, becoming slightly more mild. This is one of the top choices for outdoor citrus in Western Washington. It should be planted in a very sunny, protected location, or it can be grown as a house plant, or be brought inside just for the winter.
Indoor Growing Tips:
Use a balanced organic citrus fertilizer once a month April–September, or year-round if using supplemental light. Well-drained soil is a must, let soil approach dryness between watering and avoid letting roots sit in water. Supplement with organic fish emulsion and a micronutrient mix. Citrus likes high humidity.
USDA Zone: 7
Pollination: Self-fertile
Time to productivity: 1 year
Ripening time: Late fall
Cold hardiness: 5-10°F