“Bought from Home Depot — rounder, sweeter kumquat type.”
Background
'Fukushu' (also sold as 'Changshou' kumquat; 'fukushu' refers to the oboval fruit shape) is a Fortunella obovata selection of uncertain origin, considered a possible hybrid between two Fortunella species; long grown in China and Japan. Origin as a chance seedling/hybrid per trade accounts; details are thin. An Arizona wholesale grower (AZ Wholesale Growers) lists it, confirming it is traded in the state.
Distinguishing traits
Naturally compact, broad, nearly thornless tree (4-6 ft in containers, 6-10 ft in ground) with larger, broader, darker green rounded leaves than other kumquats. Fruit ~1.5 in, round to oboval/pear-shaped, thin sweet edible rind with tart acidic flesh and few seeds. Fragrant summer blossoms; fruit ripens winter. Ornamental as well as edible.
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- Very low.
- Cold hardiness
- Hardy to ~20°F per grower data (zone 9-11 outdoors).
- Heat tolerance
- Takes desert heat; compact habit suits patios with afternoon shade in extreme heat.
- Water
- Moderate; deep watering weekly in summer; self-fertile, no pollinizer needed.
- Soil
- Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral; container-friendly.
- Sun exposure
- Full sun; afternoon shade beneficial in 110°F+ spells.
Where to buy
- AZ Wholesale Growers