How to Grow Finger Citrus
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Finger Citrus
Sarcodactylis (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis)
fruitFinger citrus, also known as Buddha's hand, is a unique citrus variety prized for its distinctive finger-like segmented fruits and highly fragrant zest. The plant produces elongated, lemon-shaped fruits that are virtually seedless and contain little to no flesh or juice, making them primarily valued for their aromatic rind. This ornamental and culinary fruit tree is less cold-hardy than standard citrus but offers remarkable fragrance and visual appeal.
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Example Finger Citrus timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Finger Citrus
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Finger Citrus
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown in containers in cooler zones
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Seedling/Nursery
Established upon purchase; acclimate for 1-2 weeksYoung plant with small leaves and delicate stems, typically 6-12 inches tall from nursery purchase
Keep in bright, indirect light if indoors. Maintain consistent moisture. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Vegetative Growth
6-18 months depending on age at plantingPlant develops fuller canopy with glossy, narrow green leaves; stems strengthen and thicken
Apply balanced citrus fertilizer monthly during spring and summer. Prune to shape and remove crossing branches. Monitor for pests.
Flowering
4-8 weeksFragrant white flowers appear in clusters, typically in spring; flowers are highly aromatic with a jasmine-like scent
Maintain consistent watering and temperature. Do not fertilize excessively with nitrogen, which reduces flowering. Allow bees and pollinators access if outdoors.
Fruit Development
4-6 monthsSmall green fruits form and gradually elongate into the characteristic finger-like segments over 4-6 months
Continue regular watering and fertilization. Thin overcrowded fruits if desired for larger specimens. Protect from temperature fluctuations.
Maturity & Harvest
2-4 months; fruits persist on treeFruits reach full length (6-12 inches) and develop intense lemon-yellow color; fragrance peaks
Harvest when fully colored. Fruits can remain on tree for extended periods. Reduce watering slightly after harvest.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for serpentine leaf trails; remove infested leaves; apply spinosad or neem oil spray; encourage natural parasitoids
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; prune heavily infested branches
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Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil spray in dormant season; use insecticidal soap during growing season
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Isolate infested plants; spray with rubbing alcohol-water solution; apply neem oil; introduce natural predators
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; remove heavily infested leaves
Uses
Zest & Fragrance
CulinaryThe highly aromatic rind is used to zest desserts, beverages, and savory dishes without the bitterness of regular lemon peel. The fragrance enhances perfumery applications and can be used in tea. [source]
Fragrance & Ornament
HouseholdFruits are traditionally placed in rooms as natural air fresheners and decorative centerpieces due to their striking appearance and powerful fragrance. A single fruit can perfume an entire room. [source]
Candied Peel
CulinaryThe thick, sweet rind can be candied or used to make marmalade, preserves, and confections with a milder flavor than regular citrus peels. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIn traditional Asian medicine, finger citrus is used to aid digestion and improve appetite; the peel contains limonene and other beneficial compounds. [source]
Perfumery & Essential Oil
CraftThe essential oils expressed from the rind are valued in perfumery and aromatherapy for their bright, uplifting citrus scent profile. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest fruits when fully yellow, typically 8-12 months after flowering. Cut with pruning shears rather than pulling. Fruits do not ripen off the tree. Can be left on tree for several months after ripening. Handle gently to avoid bruising the delicate rind. Peak fragrance occurs immediately after harvest.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Finger citrus is called 'Buddha's hand' in Chinese and Japanese tradition because the fruit's unusual segmented form resembles a hand in a blessing gesture, and it is often offered as an offering in Buddhist temples
- 🌱 Unlike other citrus fruits, finger citrus contains virtually no juice or flesh inside—it is almost entirely rind and pith, making it ideal for zesting and fragrance rather than juicing
- 🌱 A single finger citrus fruit can perfume an entire room for several weeks, and the fragrance intensifies when the fruit is gently warmed or the rind is slightly scratched
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