Description

Citrus × myrtifolia, commonly known as chinotto, is a citrus fruit of the genus Citrus (Rutaceae family). Its origin is not exactly ascertained. The opinion prevails that it is a mutation of the bitter orange which over time has developed into the species known today. The tree reaches a maximum of 3 meters and has often straight branches with short and compact ramifications. The leaves are small, coriaceous, and recall those of myrtle, hence the specific term derived from the Latin.
The fruits, orange in maturity, are small and crushed at the poles, have a very bitter and sour juice. Usually the fruits ripen in the middle of June. The plant is afraid of the cold.