Kumquatine - Citrus Kucle

The 'Kucle', also known as Kucli, or Kumquatine, is the result of cross-breeding between Fortunella margarita (kumquat) and Citrus clementina (clementine). This vigorous and highly decorative bush offers an abundance of orange fruits resembling kumquats, slightly larger than the latter, with a deliciously tangy flavour and a hint of clementine aftertaste. Like kumquats, it is consumed with the skin. Resistant to cold temperatures up to -4°C (24.8°F), it can be grown in open ground only in regions with very mild climates; elsewhere, it is preferably cultivated in a large container, overwintered in a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory.

Named Fortunella in honour of Robert Fortune, who introduced them to Europe in 1846, Kumquats are among the easiest citrus trees to grow in our climates due to their good cold resistance. As for clementines, they need no introduction! Discovered by Father Clément, a French missionary, in the early 20th century in Algeria, these small round citrus fruits, slightly flattened at the ends, with sweet, juicy flesh brighten up our tables in winter when other fruits are scarce.

The 'Kucle' forms a rounded and compact bush, without thorns, from the Rutaceae family. It has a bushy and rather erect habit, reaching a height of about 3 metres (10 feet) at maturity, with a spread of 1.50 metres (5 feet). If grown in a pot, its size is reduced. Its growth rate is moderate. Relatively hardy, it can be planted in open ground in many regions spared by severe frosts. Elsewhere, it will be grown in a pot and stored away at the first frost. The 'Kucle' produces small white flowers with a sweet fragrance characteristic of orange blossom, which give way to small elongated fruits that are harvested when ripe, usually from December to March, when they have acquired a beautiful bright orange colour. The moderately thick skin is free from the burning principle found in other citrus fruits. It has a sweet flavour and a subtle bitter orange scent. The juicy pulp is highly acidic and slightly sweet, with few seeds. The evergreen leaves are a glossy dark green on the upper side, paler underneath. Like all Citrus trees, the 'Kucle' contains essential oil pockets in its leaves, flowers, and fruits, often visible to the naked eye, from which essential oil is extracted by distillation (flowers and leaves) or by pressing (peel).

The fruits of the Kumquatine can be consumed raw but are also used in savoury or sweet cooking, in jam, candied in sugar, or prepared in syrup. Their subtle flavour pairs well with savoury dishes such as tagines or the famous duck à l'orange. The Kumquatine can also be used to prepare refined sweet and sour sauces to accompany Asian dishes. The skin is pleasant on the palate, providing a burst of flavours when the fruit is eaten as is. If you appreciate tangy flavours, you will enjoy the balanced marriage of acidity and sweetness that is unique to this fruit.

Most citrus trees thrive in open ground in Mediterranean coastal regions, where they find the necessary warmth throughout the year. The 'Kucle' is self-fertile, meaning that a single individual is sufficient for fruiting. However, if your citrus tree remains indoors permanently, you will need to occasionally allow pollinators in or delicately perform hand pollination.