Buddha's Hand: The Finger-Shaped Aromatic Citron
Buddha's Hand is a citron with multiple finger-like segments and no juicy flesh. The 1,500-year story of this fragrant ceremonial fruit.
Buddha's Hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) is one of the most peculiar citrus fruits in the world โ a fragrant yellow citron with multiple finger-like segments and almost no juicy flesh inside, just intensely fragrant peel and pith. Native to northeast India and China, the fruit has been used as a ceremonial gift and natural air freshener for over 1,500 years.
Origin and history
A variety of the citron (Citrus medica) โ one of the three ancestral citrus species. Cultivated in southern China for over 1,500 years, where it is associated with Buddhist traditions (the shape resembles hands in prayer). The fruit is offered at temples and given as New Year gifts symbolizing happiness and longevity.
Where it grows today
China and Japan are the main producers. Limited commercial production in California and Italy for specialty markets.
How to grow
USDA Zones 9-11. Small thorny tree. Bears fruit in 2-3 years from a grafted seedling.
Use
No juice. The fragrant zest is candied, infused into vodka or liqueur, used as a natural air freshener, and presented as ceremonial decoration.
Bottom line
A ceremonial fragrance fruit, not an eating fruit. Plant one for the conversation piece and the intense citrus perfume in your kitchen.
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