Citrus trifoliata

Trifoliate orange or hardy orange is an invasive deciduous thorny shrub or small tree in the Rutaceae (citrus) family native to China.  The species name trifoliata is Latin for three leaved and refers to the glossy dark green three lobed leaves of this plant.

It prefers well drained, acidic soil in a sunny location and grows up to nearly 20' tall. This plant blooms in mid-spring and the showy orange fruit ripens in early fall. Thorns are sharp and numerous and are not for high traffic areas. It is intolerant of shady sites and isn't particularly winter-hardy.  

The lemon-like fruit is exceedingly sour and full of seeds. If eaten in large quantities, the high acidity can cause severe stomach pain and nausea. Some people experience minor skin irritation with prolonged contact. While the peel and the pulp can be used to make marmalade, the fruit is often left on the tree to provide beauty well into winter.

Quick ID Hints:

• Lemon-like, fall-ripening, sour fruit
• Trifoliate leaves with winged petioles
• Bright green twigs and numerous, long green spines

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious pest or disease problems.  It can be weedy and is considered invasive in some states including by the NC Invasive Plant Council. See native alternatives to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common citrus insect and related pests.