Ichang Papeda

Citrus ichangensis

Physical Characteristics

Citrus ichangensis is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4.5 m (14ft 9in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - W. and S.W. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[183]. Juicy but too acid for most people to eat raw, the fruit can be used as a lemon substitute[200]. The fruit is quite large, up to 10cm x 5cm but with large seeds about 15mm long and 8mm thick[200].

Medicinal Uses

Miscellany Vitamin C Citrus species contain a wide range of active ingredients and research is still underway in finding uses for them. They are rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, acids and volatile oils. They also contain coumarins such as bergapten which sensitizes the skin to sunlight. Bergapten is sometimes added to tanning preparations since it promotes pigmentation in the skin, though it can cause dermatitis or allergic responses in some people. Some of the plants more recent applications are as sources of anti-oxidants and chemical exfoliants in specialized cosmetics.

Known Hazards

None known