Citrus Lipo - Hybrid Citrus

Citrus 'Lipo' is the result of cross-breeding between the Lemon (Citrus limon) and the Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi). This hybrid forms a very beautiful bush, reaching 4m (13ft) in height, and produces clusters of large, perpetual flowers, white and waxy, with a sweet fragrance. Everything is large about this citrus tree, from the leaves to the yellow fruits that can exceed 12cm (5in) in diameter. Their flesh is juicy and less acidic than in lemons. Susceptible to cold temperatures below -4°C (24.8°F), it is best grown in mild climates in open ground; elsewhere, it can be cultivated in a large container, overwintered in a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory.

Citrus limon x C. paradisi 'Lipo' is also known as the 'Imperial Lemon' in English due to the majestic size of its fruits. Popularized during the 1970s, it is a medium-sized bush with dense foliage, belonging to the Rutaceae family. Its habit is naturally rounded. This beautiful tree reaches a height of 4m (13ft) and spreads over about 2m (7ft) when grown in open ground under favourable conditions. Its growth will, of course, be more limited in a pot. The 'Lipo' Citrus has a perpetual flowering. Its large flowers are white, star-shaped, divinely scented, and arranged in clusters. They give way to fruits resembling very large lemons, weighing over 500g. The moderately thick skin, initially green and then yellow at ripeness, has a somewhat granulose appearance. The flesh of the fruit, white-greenish and translucent, is less acidic than that of lemons. The large leaves are evergreen, leathery, and aromatic.

Like all Citrus trees, the Lipo contains essential oil pockets in its leaves, flowers, and fruits, often visible to the naked eye. Essential oil with antiseptic, tonic, and appetizing properties is extracted from them through distillation (flowers and leaves) or pressing (zest). The fragrance of the essential oil is described as fruity, tangy, slightly bitter, with floral notes.

Most citrus trees thrive in open ground in Mediterranean coastal regions, where they find the necessary year-round warmth. But to bear fruit well, they must not lack water or nutrients. It is a self-fertile bush, meaning that a single individual is sufficient for complete pollination and fruiting. 'Lipo' is a very beautiful ornamental tree in very mild climates: with its superb deep green and shiny foliage, its clusters of large fruits, and its naturally balanced habit, it is particularly decorative.