Cumquat

Cumquat is a treat to have in the garden. The tree hangs with glossy orange baubles like big bittersweet lollies. They are a symbol of good luck and are given at Lunar New Year celebrations. You can them whole, skin and all, straight off the tree. Squash them a little in your hand first to release the flavours. They are also delicious as the main star in a citrus cake.

You can also enjoy them:

• made into marmalade

• candied in honey or sugar

• pickled

• preserved in spirits like brandy

• in desserts such as tarts, puddings or cakes

• added to Salads

• In iced tea

Cumquat iced tea

Make a syrup by heating 100g of sugar, 100 ml water, and about 8 sliced cumquats. Simmer for about 15 minutes, adding more water if required. Let the syrup cool and add it to pre-prepared and cooled weakish tea (green or black). Add more sugar or honey if desired and optional mint, sliced lemon or lime and leave in the fridge for eat least an hour before serving. You can also prepare the drink and add chilled still or sparkly water instead of tea to make a cumquat lemonade which is equally as refreshing. Optional extra things to add to the drink include chunks of lychee or strawberry, tapioca pearls and ice cubes.

Hot cumquat tea

Simmer sliced cumquats for 15 mins then add honey to taste and serve.

Health properties

Cumquats are high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. A 100-g serving of (5-6 fruits) supplies:

• 73% of recommended daily intake of vitamin C

• 10% of recommended daily intake of vitamin A

• 7% of recommended daily intake of magnesium

• 6% of recommended daily intake of calcium

Growing and maintaining cumquat trees

• Cumquats grow well in pots and make a really attractive feature as part of a balcony or small space garden.

• Ensure airflow around the plants to prevent pest and diseases

• Mulch well around the plants to suppress weeds and grass from growing close to the tree.

• Ensure mulch doesn't touch the base of the stem to reduce risk of fungal infections

• Feed every spring and autumn - alternate different fertiliser types such as compost and blood and bone

• Water well when the fruit is forming to ensure abundant and juicy fruit, but ensure that the soil is well-drained

• Mulch with sugarcane, lucerne or straw.

• Remove all young fruit for the first two years to establish robust plants.

• Protect the tree from strong winds

Related articles:

• What to do with citrus skins to reduce waste in the kitchen

• Easy to make no waste citrus cake that uses the whole fruit