Flying Dragon Rootstock: Dwarf Citrus Trees in NZ
Flying Dragon is a dwarfing citrus rootstock that keeps a citrus tree to about 1.5โ2 metres tall while it still carries full-sized fruit. Flying Dragon Nursery in Kerikeri introduced this rootstock to New Zealand in the 1980s, and it is where our name comes from. Most of our citrus varieties are available on a choice of two rootstocks: Flying Dragon (dwarf) and Rubidoux Trifoliata (semi-dwarf).
Flying Dragon vs Trifoliata at a glance
| Flying Dragon (dwarf) | Rubidoux Trifoliata (semi-dwarf) | |
|---|---|---|
| Mature height | About 1.5โ2 m | About 3โ6 m, depending on variety and pruning |
| Fruit size | Full-sized fruit | Full-sized fruit |
| Best for | Pots, balconies, courtyards, small sections | Larger gardens and home orchards |
| Crop | Heavy for the size of the tree | Larger total crop from a bigger tree |
What is Flying Dragon rootstock?
Flying Dragon is a naturally dwarfing form of trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata 'Flying Dragon') with twisted stems and curved thorns. It has been treasured in Japan for centuries. When a citrus variety is grafted onto it, the rootstock restricts the size of the tree without reducing the size of the fruit. A citrus tree that would normally reach 3โ5 metres tall and 3โ4 metres wide becomes a compact tree of around 1.5โ2 metres.
Why choose a dwarf citrus tree?
- It fits in a large pot, on a balcony or in a small courtyard.
- Fruit is easy to reach, and the tree is easy to net, prune and protect from frost.
- You can grow several varieties in the space of one full-sized tree.
When is Trifoliata the better choice?
Rubidoux Trifoliata is a more vigorous rootstock that gives a strong, healthy root system and a bigger tree. Choose it if you have room and want larger crops. The final height depends on the variety grafted onto it, your growing conditions and how you prune.
Common questions
How big does a citrus tree on Flying Dragon get?
Around 1.5โ2 metres tall at maturity, and it can be kept smaller in a pot.
Is the fruit smaller on a dwarf citrus tree?
No. The rootstock dwarfs the tree, not the fruit.
Can I grow dwarf citrus in a pot?
Yes. Citrus on Flying Dragon is the best choice for pots. Use a large container with free-draining potting mix, feed regularly with citrus fertiliser and let the top of the mix dry out between waterings.
Where can I buy citrus on Flying Dragon rootstock in NZ?
Flying Dragon Nursery grafts lemons, limes, mandarins, oranges, grapefruit, kumquats and finger limes onto Flying Dragon and delivers NZ-wide from Kerikeri. Browse citrus trees and pick your rootstock on each product page.
More help: citrus tree FAQs ยท beginner's guide to growing citrus