Fingered Citron (Buddha’s Hand)

Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis | Exotic, finger-shaped fruit with intense fragrance and decorative appeal

The Fingered Citron (commonly called Buddha’s Hand) is a remarkable citrus cultivar known for its finger-like segments that form a striking hand-shape. Unlike most citrus, its fruit often contains little to no juice or pulp, with the fragrant outer peel prized for zesting, candied peel, aromatic uses and ornamental display. The plant features glossy evergreen foliage, thorny branches and bold visual impact — making it ideal for feature planting or large containers in full sun.

Plant Care

Sun: Full sun is essential for best growth, flowering and fruiting.
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained; amend free-draining soils with compost and coarse material (e.g., grit or pumice) to ensure root drainage.
Water: Moderate — keep evenly moist during growth, particularly when fruit is forming; reduce slightly during slow growth periods.
Fertiliser: Balanced citrus feed in early spring and again in midsummer; ensure micronutrients (e.g., magnesium, iron) are available if foliage shows signs of deficiency.
Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter/early spring to remove dead wood, shape the canopy, open airflow and reduce thorn-density; handle with care due to sharp thorns.
Top tip: Mulch the root zone to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep mulch clear of the trunk base; in colder periods protect the tree (or move container) until minimum ambient temperatures are safe for citrus.

Specifications

Botanical name: Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis
Common name: Fingered Citron (Buddha’s Hand)
Growth habit: Upright to semi-spreading shrub/tree with thorny branches and an ornamental canopy
Size: Approx. ±1.8–4 m H × ±1.5–3 m W (manageable in containers to smaller size)
Fruit: Distinctive finger-like citron segments; outer peel bright yellow when mature, thick aromatic rind, little or no pulp/juice
Flesh: Very little pulp; the white pith is mildly flavoured, and the peel is intensely aromatic with citrus-blossom character
Harvest: Typically late autumn through winter; fruits are ready when bright yellow and strongly fragrant
Uses: Decorative specimen, container feature, zesting and culinary use (candied peel, infusion, flavouring), aromatic display

Quick Facts

• Eye-catching fruit shape and fragrance make this citrus ideal for ornamental and edible gardens.
• Intense aromatic peel — a little goes a long way for zesting and flavouring.
• Suitable for full sun garden sites or containers; protect from frost and cold drafts.