Description
In 1965, George Otto Nordmann found a seedless kumquat on a Nagami seedling in DeLand, Florida, and the value was immediate: preserve the whole-fruit kumquat experience while removing the seeds. The result is a seedless selection with a slightly different look—often teardrop-shaped with lighter-colored skin—while keeping the familiar sweet peel and bright, tangy pulp that makes kumquats so addictive in winter.
This is a variety that earns its place near the house or on the patio because it’s so easy to use. You pick a few, eat them whole, and you’re done—no peeling, no spitting seeds. The fruit also hangs in ornamental clusters and can be harvested gradually through the season.
Overview
- Seedless kumquat meant to be eaten whole.
- Teardrop-shaped fruit; flavor in the Nagami lane (sweet peel, tangy pulp).
- Late fall through winter ripening; fruit holds well in clusters.
- Compact, patio-friendly citrus habit.
- Self-fertile.
Growing Details
Latin Name: Citrus japonica ‘Nordmann Seedless’
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 for brief periods 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: Nordmann Seedless was discovered in 1965 on a Nagami seedling in DeLand, Florida—then preserved and propagated because removing seeds makes the eat-whole kumquat experience dramatically more enjoyable.
- Regional Insight: A strong fit for warm citrus regions, and an excellent container citrus in cooler climates where it can be protected during freezing weather.
- Harvest Tip: Let fruit reach full color for the best balance; kumquats reward patience, and room-temperature fruit tastes noticeably sweeter and rounder than chilled fruit.
- Explore more kumquat varieties in our collection: Kumquats
