Cocktail Citrus

Plant Type: Evergreen Fruit Tree
Plant Height: 12-18 feet (can be kept smaller with pruning)
Spread: 10-15 feet
Flower Color: White, fragrant blossoms
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Cocktail Citrus: Unique Fruit Blend on One Tree

The Cocktail Citrus (Citrus ‘Cocktail’) is a specialty fruit tree prized for producing two types of fruit on one tree: sweet, juicy pummelo-grapefruit hybrids and rich, tangy mandarins. With glossy evergreen leaves, fragrant spring blossoms, and multi-season harvests, this citrus tree brings both beauty and productivity to Arizona landscapes. Its compact form, ornamental value, and unique fruit selection make it a standout choice for backyards, patios, or edible gardens.

Key Features of Cocktail Citrus

• Two-in-One Fruit Tree: Produces both large, sweet pummelo-grapefruit fruit and smaller mandarins.
• Fragrant Spring Blooms: White blossoms fill the air with a sweet citrus fragrance.
• Compact Size: Naturally smaller than many citrus trees, ideal for urban yards and patios.
• Evergreen Foliage: Provides year-round greenery and ornamental appeal.
• Productive Harvests: Extended fruiting season with abundant crops.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil; avoid heavy clay without amendment.
• Water: Moderate water needs; consistent deep watering ensures healthy growth and fruit production.
• Pruning: Light annual pruning helps maintain shape and size.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 28°F; protect with frost cloth during extreme cold spells.

Landscaping Uses

• Edible Gardens: Produces fruit while providing ornamental value.
• Patio Tree: Perfect for smaller landscapes or container growth.
• Accent Plant: Evergreen form and glossy foliage make it attractive year-round.
• Family Yards: Provides fresh fruit and seasonal interest.

Summary

The Cocktail Citrus Tree offers the rare benefit of harvesting two different fruits from one plant. Combining beauty, fragrance, and productivity, it’s a perfect choice for Arizona homeowners who want to enjoy homegrown citrus in a manageable, decorative tree.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Cocktail Citrus Planting Guide

Location: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for strongest flowering and fruit set.
Soil: Well-drained sandy loam; amend heavy soils with compost and sand.
Spacing: Plant 10-15 feet apart from other citrus trees.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm lightly.
Support: May require staking in the first year until established.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: 7-10 gallons per watering for young trees.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: 9-12 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 7-10 days; increase to weekly in extreme heat or during heavy fruit set.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks if rainfall is lacking.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 12-18 inches from trunk, expanding as canopy grows.
• Flow Rate: 2-4 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 3-4 per tree, adding more as roots spread.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase during flowering and fruit development; reduce in cooler weather.

General Watering Tips for Cocktail Citrus

• Soil Check: Water when top 2-3 inches are dry.
• Encourage Fruit Production: Consistent deep watering during flowering and fruiting boosts yield and quality.
• Avoid Overwatering: Standing water can lead to root rot.
• Mulch: Use wood chips or gravel mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk.