Citrus australasica Care: Citrus caviar
El Citrus australasia, also known as citrus caviar o lime caviar, is a citrus fruit native to subtropical regions of Australia that has gained popularity in recent years. This tree, characterized by its unique fruits with a refreshing, tangy flavor, is highly valued in modern haute cuisine due to its culinary and aesthetic versatility.
El Microcitrus australasica It is a small shrub or tree that can reach up to two meters in height. Its appearance is quite ornamental, reminiscent of bonsai, with small leaves and thorns that protect its branches. In spring, it produces white flowers which, after pollination, will give way to the fascinating fruits that are harvested between November and January.
The elongated fruits, which can vary in color from green to brown, go through different shades as they ripen. Their pulp is particularly interesting, as it contains small vesicles filled with a juice very similar to that of the lime, which gives it its name citrus caviar due to its similar appearance to caviar roe.
Growing conditions
The cultivation of Citrus australasia requires certain specific conditions to ensure its healthy growth:
- Light: This shrub prefers full sun exposure, although in its initial stage it can benefit from a semi-shaded location.
- Ground: It requires a well-drained substrate, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to promote iron assimilation.
- Irrigation: It requires moderate watering, taking care not to flood the substrate. During periods of flowering y fructification, the amount of water should be increased.
- Temperatures: Despite being a citrus fruit, it is more tolerant of cold than other varieties, withstanding frosts as low as -4°C if not prolonged.
El citrus caviar It is not only grown in gardens, but is also suitable for growing in pots, which allows for better protection from frost in more severe climates. It is recommended to use a specific fertilizer for citrus fruits containing iron and magnesium for better fruit production.
Benefits of growing Citrus australasica
There are multiple benefits to growing Citrus australasia at home:
- Nutritional power: The fruits are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which promotes a healthy diet.
- Culinary use: Its tart and refreshing flavor makes it ideal for dressing salads, seafood, and other gourmet dishes.
- Decorative appeal: Its colorful foliage and fruits make it an attractive choice for gardens and patios.
- Business opportunity: Due to its growing demand in gastronomy, you could sell its fruits to restaurants or local markets.
Challenges in cultivation
Despite its many benefits, the cultivation of Citrus australasia presents certain challenges:
- Diseases: It is susceptible to various pests and diseases common in citrus fruits, so constant monitoring is important.
- Weather conditions: Its vulnerability to frost and extreme temperatures may limit its cultivation in some regions.
- Constant care: It requires regular attention in terms of watering, pruning and fertilization to ensure its development.
Culinary uses of Citrus Caviar
El citrus caviar has found a prominent place in haute cuisine, thanks to its versatile applications:
- Dressings: Ideal for seafood, salads and ceviches, providing a refreshing touch.
- Desserts: It can be used in creams, cakes, and as a decoration on desserts, adding a contrast of flavor.
- Drinks: Perfect as an additive in cocktails, offering an explosion of flavor to the palate.
- Preserves: It is used in jams and marmalades, offering a unique and exotic flavor to traditional dishes.
With its visual appeal and delicious taste, the Citrus australasia It's an excellent option for those looking to diversify their garden or orchard. Not only does it provide unique and valuable fruits for the kitchen, but it also enhances the overall aesthetics of the space. Growing it, while requiring some care, is rewarding both in terms of production and the enjoyment of its distinctive fruits.
I have one for several years now and it has not yet produced any fruit, not even flowers, I have it in the field together with other orange trees and it is watered and fertilized with the drip just like the rest of the field, you think it will come to bear fruit, I I would like a lot.
Hello Eduardo.
In principle it would not have to flourish. How many years have you had it?
There are trees that take a long time to bear fruit, 10, 15 years. But the normal thing is that the Citrus does not take so long.
A greeting.
Hello Monica and Eduardo, I have a 3 - 4 year old I have fruits and this year many flowers, it is in a pot in semi sun shade, but with this heat of this year, I water it every afternoon and it is drier than normal, I think I am not an expert or a novice that is the drip, because it never dries a little, I will put it in a pot that is not under the drip or if you can divert it that from time to time it dries a little. Hope this worked for you. Greetings Martina