Name: Nagami Kumquat Citrus Tree | Eat-Whole Winter Citrus
SKU: Kumquat (Nagami)
Availability: InStock

Kumquat (Nagami)

Nagami kumquat produces bright orange fruit meant to be eaten whole—sweet, aromatic skin balanced by lively, tangy flesh for a bold winter citrus experience.

Kumquat eaten whole (skin and flesh together).
Sweet peel with vibrant citrus acidity inside.
Late fall through winter harvest.
Compact growth habit suited to containers and patios.
Self-fertile.

Description

Nagami kumquat has always been one of our favorite kumquats to grow. The fruit is eaten whole—no peeling—so the sweetness of the aromatic skin meets the bright, tangy flesh in a single bite. It’s a citrus that shines during the quieter months of the year, when fresh fruit is most appreciated.

The oval fruit ripens from late fall into winter and is known for holding well on the tree, allowing harvest over an extended window rather than all at once. While excellent for fresh eating, Nagami also performs beautifully in marmalade, candying, and preserves, maintaining its character even when processed.

Overview

Oval kumquat eaten whole.
Sweet peel paired with lively, tangy flesh.
Late fall through winter ripening with extended hang time.
Naturally compact growth habit.
Self-fertile.

Growing Details

Latin Name: Citrus japonica ’Nagami’

Site and Soil: Full sun; well-drained soil

Rootstock: 1-gallon trees on Flying Dragon; larger sizes on C-35

Hardiness: Best suited to USDA Zones 8–11; hardy to around 20°F with protection once established

Bearing Age: Often fruits immediately; grafted trees may produce in their first season

Size at Maturity:

• Flying Dragon: Typically 4–6 ft tall and wide

• C-35: Typically 8–12 ft tall and wide

Note: Trees grown in containers remain smaller and are easily maintained with pruning.

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer (timing varies by climate and culture)

Ripening Time: Late fall through winter, often extending into late winter

Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile

Pests & Diseases: Similar to other citrus; good airflow and drainage reduce issues

Additional Notes

Grower’s Insight: Nagami fruit holds exceptionally well on the tree through winter, allowing growers to harvest gradually rather than all at once.
Regional Insight: Performs reliably in warm citrus regions and excels as a container-grown citrus in cooler climates with winter protection.
Harvest Tip: Flavor mellows as fruit hangs; fully colored, tree-ripened fruit delivers the best balance.
Explore more kumquat varieties in our collection: Kumquats

Planting & Care

At a Glance – Nagami Kumquat

Sun: 3/4 day to full day of sun
Soil: Well-drained soil
Soil pH: Performs best between 5.5–6.5
Water: Moderate; consistent during establishment
Tree Size: Compact; well suited to containers
Pollination: Self-fertile
Harvest: Late fall through winter
Hardiness: Hardy to ~20°F with protection

Planting & Care – Nagami Kumquat

Site Selection

Select a warm, sunny location to support fruit quality and winter ripening.
South- or west-facing exposures improve performance in marginal climates.
Shelter from cold wind reduces winter stress.

Soil Preparation (In-Ground vs Container)

In-ground: Drainage is critical; raised or mounded planting is recommended in heavier soils.
In-ground: Slightly acidic soil supports nutrient uptake and steady growth.
Container: Use a fast-draining citrus mix in a container with ample drainage holes.
Container: Containers allow easy movement and protection during cold snaps.

Planting Instructions

Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, or choose a container slightly larger than the root mass.
Set the tree so the root flare sits at or slightly above finished soil or potting mix.
Backfill gently and water thoroughly.
Mulch lightly for in-ground trees, keeping mulch away from the trunk.

Watering (In-Ground vs Container)

In-ground, establishment: Keep soil evenly moist during the first growing season.
In-ground, established: Deep, periodic watering supports steady fruiting.
Check: Water when soil is dry 3–6 inches below the surface.
Container: Water thoroughly, then allow the top couple inches of mix to dry.

Fertilizing

Nagami responds well to consistent citrus nutrition.
Base feeding: Apply slow-release citrus fertilizer in early spring and early summer.
Support feeding: Supplemental liquid feeding during active growth supports flowering and fruit development.
Reduce feeding late in the season to encourage winter hardening.

Cold Care

Protect young trees during freezing weather.
Container trees can be moved to sheltered or indoor locations during cold snaps.

Pruning & Harvest

Minimal pruning is needed; light shaping maintains airflow and size.
Harvest when fruit is fully orange for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.

General Tips

Extended hang time makes harvesting flexible.
Consistent sun and drainage matter more than aggressive feeding.