Yuzu (Citrus × junos) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Yuzu is a small evergreen citrus tree native to China. Its roughly round fruit has a bumpy yellow rind, and the fragrant peel and tart juice are used in sauces, drinks, and desserts.

Appearance

Appearance: The roughly round fruit is about 2–3 in (5–8 cm) wide, with a bumpy rind and many seeds. Long thorns grow on the branches.
Growth form: It is an evergreen small tree.
Fruit: In a California garden, green fruit can be picked in late summer or fall; yellow fruit is picked from October to December.

Look-alikes

LemonCitrus × limon

Yuzu is usually round with a noticeably bumpy rind. A lemon (Citrus × limon) is oval and often has a pointed bump at one end.

Why they get mixed upBoth can be yellow and sharply tart.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: California home gardens
Range: Native to China, yuzu is grown as a specialty citrus in California.
Preferred conditions: It is more cold tolerant than many citrus trees, but young trees still need care during freezes.
Seasons: In California
Fruit Oct–Dec

Growing it

Care: California gardeners grow it mainly for its fragrant peel and juice, rather than for eating the sour pulp fresh.

Name and classification

About the name: The × in its scientific name points to its hybrid origin.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: NENot EvaluatedNot yet assessed

Culture and stories

Culture and stories: Yuzu zest and juice bring a bright citrus flavor to sauces, drinks, and desserts.
The fruit is a familiar ingredient in Japanese and Korean cooking.

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