Citrus microcarpa 'Hand of Buddha Variegata'

Origin
The Citrus microcarpa 'Hand of Buddha Variegata' originally comes from India and neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka. This tropical citrus plant is also found in other parts of Asia. It is called 'Hand of Buddha' due to the unusual shape of its fruits, which model the hand position of Buddha in certain artistic depictions. Besides this name, it is also known as 'Buddha's Hand lemon'.

Characteristics
The Citrus microcarpa 'Hand of Buddha Variegata' bears fascinating fruits. These fruits grow in segments resembling fingers of a hand. They are a vibrant yellow colour and are highly aromatic. Interestingly, these fruits contain little to no flesh or juice and therefore are primarily used for decorative purposes or for their fragrance. The plant itself has elongated, spiky leaves and produces flowers that are white and purple in colour.

Care
Caring for a Citrus microcarpa 'Hand of Buddha Variegata' requires some attention. The plant prefers a location in full sun or semi-shade and should be planted in well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Regular watering is essential, but over-watering should be avoided. During the winter months, the plant should be kept indoors or in a sheltered spot to prevent frost damage. It is recommended to fertilise the plant annually to promote healthy growth.