Poncirus trifoliata

Poncirus trifoliata, commonly called hardy orange, a citrus relative, is a thorny, well-branched, deciduous shrub or small tree which typically grow 8-15′ (less frequently to 20′) tall. Three-lobed (trifoliate as per the species name) leaves emerge yellowish-green in spring, turn glossy dark green in summer and fade to yellow in autumn. Spiny, dark green stems. Fragrant, white, 4-7 petaled flowers (to 2″ diameter) appear singly in spring. Flowers give way to 1-2.5″ diameter fruits (miniature downy hardy oranges) which ripen to an attractive yellow in the fall. Fruits of this citrus relative are edible (lemony flavor), but are very acidic and seedy. Fruits can used to make marmalade (use peel zest and pulp), but are usually left on the tree where they persist well into winter and often provide significant ornamental interest.