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Kumquat

Kumquat is a group of small citrus fruits and evergreen trees or shrubs in the citrus family Rutaceae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Kumquat is a group of small citrus fruits and evergreen trees or shrubs in the citrus family Rutaceae. Native to southern China and other parts of eastern Asia, kumquats are known for their edible sweet skin and tart flesh. They are grown in subtropical and warm temperate regions.

Description

Kumquats are small orange citrus fruits, usually oval or round, with thin edible skin and acidic flesh. They resemble miniature oranges and are notable for being eaten whole.

Taxonomy and naming

Kumquats are citrus plants in the family Rutaceae and were historically placed in the genus Fortunella. The English name is derived from Cantonese terms associated with “golden orange” or “gold tangerine”.

Distribution and cultivation

Kumquats are native to southern China and eastern Asia and have been cultivated for centuries in Japan and Southeast Asia. They are also grown in warm regions such as California, Florida, and other subtropical areas.

Uses

Kumquats are commonly eaten fresh and are also processed into jams, jellies, preserves, and other food products. Their edible peel and tart flavour make them distinct from many other citrus fruits.

Key facts

  • Kumquats are among the smallest citrus fruits.
  • The fruit has a sweet peel and tart flesh.
  • They are native to southern China and have long been cultivated in Japan and Southeast Asia.
  • Kumquats are grown in subtropical regions, including parts of the United States.
  • The fruits are eaten fresh and also used in preserves, jams, and jellies.
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Canadian context

Kumquats are available in Canada mainly through imported produce and are sometimes grown as ornamental or container citrus plants in greenhouses or indoors.

Frequently asked questions

What is a kumquat?
A kumquat is a small citrus fruit from an evergreen shrub or small tree in the rutacean citrus group. It is distinctive because the peel is edible and sweeter than the flesh.
Where do kumquats come from?
Kumquats are native to southern China and eastern Asia, and they have been cultivated for centuries in Japan and Southeast Asia.
Can you eat the peel of a kumquat?
Yes. The peel is edible and is typically sweet, while the flesh is tart.
How are kumquats used?
They are eaten fresh and are also used in preserves, jams, and jellies.
Are kumquats a type of orange?
No. They are a distinct citrus fruit, though they resemble a small orange in colour and shape.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumquat
    Supports: Small citrus fruit, family Rutaceae, native to southern China, cultivated in Japan and Southeast Asia, cold-hardy citrus
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/kumquat
    Supports: Kumquats as evergreen shrubs or trees in Rutaceae, native to eastern Asia, cultivated in subtropics, used fresh or preserved
  3. Specialty Produce — https://specialtyproduce.com/produce/Kumquats_906.php
    Supports: Botanical classification, native to Asia, name meaning linked to Cantonese 'golden orange'
  4. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions — https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/fruits/kumquat/
    Supports: Small evergreen tree, named after Robert Fortune, Chinese name origin, ornamental use
  5. Food Network — https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/what-is-a-kumquat
    Supports: Fruit size, flavour profile, major kinds, U.S. growing regions