Clausena lansium
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Clausena lansium

Chinese clausena · Wampi · Wampee · Vampi

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 10–11
Click count
153
Observations
9

Description

Source: leafsnap

Clausena lansium, commonly known as wampee or Chinese wampee, is a small evergreen tree or shrub belonging to the citrus family, Rutaceae. Native to Southeast Asia and China, this plant has been cultivated for centuries for its edible fruit. The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and features a dense crown of glossy green leaves that emit a citrusy aroma when crushed. The fruit of Clausena lansium is small, round, and roughly the size of a golf ball. It has thin yellow skin encasing white flesh, which surrounds several seeds in the center. The fruit boasts a sweet-tart flavor reminiscent of grapefruit, but with hints of pineapple and mango. Beyond its culinary uses, Clausena lansium also holds medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for treating fever, coughs, sore throats, and other respiratory ailments. The plant prefers warm tropical climates but can also thrive in subtropical regions where temperatures do not drop below the freezing point. It requires well-drained soil rich in organic matter and regular watering during dry periods. Overall, the Clausena lansium plant offers both culinary delights and medicinal benefits, making it an important and culturally significant species across the Southeast Asia region where it originated. Its unique flavor profile sets it apart from other fruits available on the market today, contributing to its increasing global popularity.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Wampi flourishes in environments with moderate moisture and typically needs watering every two weeks. As a deciduous plant, it drops its leaves during dry periods as an adaptation. To promote its growth and overall health, it's important to adjust watering based on seasonal changes.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
How should I water my Wampi plant in the best way?

Your Wampi is not picky about how you water it. You can use common watering tools like cans, hoses, or cups. Just make sure to water directly on the soil and evenly moisten all areas to give the roots the water they need. Filtered water is a good choice to avoid harmful particles. It's also best to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature. Cold or hot water can be a bit shocking for the Wampi, although it usually handles any water just fine.

What should I do if I give my Wampi plant too much or too little water?

When planting outdoor plants, especially new ones or seedlings, be aware that they may need extra watering at first. This is because they are still establishing their roots and need consistent moisture. However, once they are fully established, they can usually rely on natural rainfall. On the other hand, when planting Wampi in pots, overwatering is a common mistake. If you accidentally overwater your plant, take immediate action to address the issue. First, stop watering the plant to minimize the negative effects. Next, remove the Wampi from its pot and examine the roots. If there is no sign of root rot, you can place the plant back in the pot. However, if you do find signs of root rot, trim away the affected roots and consider using a fungicide to prevent further damage. Finally, repot the Wampi in well-draining soil. For underwatered Wampi, the solution is simple: water the plant more frequently. If you notice the leaves drooping, drying out, or falling off, it's a sign that the Wampi needs more water. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Remember, underwatering can be easily corrected, so make sure to water the plant as soon as you notice signs of underwatering.

How frequently should I water my Wampi?

For plants that grow outdoors, they usually get enough water from rainfall. However, if your area doesn't get much rain, you'll need to water your plants every 2 weeks in the spring and fall. In the summer, you'll need to water them more often. In the winter, when growth slows down and plants need less water, you can water them less frequently or not at all. If your Wampi plant is young or newly planted, you should water it more often to help it get established and grow. Mature plants are more adaptable and can handle drought better. When it comes to potted plants, there are two ways to determine how often to water your Wampi. One way is to follow a set watering schedule, like once a week or once every other week. However, this may not always work because the growing conditions can vary. Another way is to check the moisture in the soil. Usually, it's best to wait until the top 2 to 4 inches of soil have completely dried out before watering again. This measurement is about one-third to half the depth of the pots.

How much water does my Wampi require?

Watering your Wampi plant may not require a high volume of water. If only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, give it about five to ten ounces of water. Take note of the soil moisture and determine if more water is needed. If over half of the soil has dried, provide more water until it begins to drain from the pot's holes. If your Wampi receives ample rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. Young or newly established plants should get 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the plant grows, it can survive solely on rainwater, unless there is a prolonged period of hot weather without rainfall. In that case, give your Wampi a thorough watering to prevent stress.

How do I know if I am giving enough water to my Wampi plant?

Overwatering is a common issue for the Wampi plant, and there are specific signs to watch out for. When a Wampi is overwatered, its leaves turn yellow and some may even fall off. Additionally, overwatering can cause the plant to shrink and contribute to root rot. Conversely, an underwatered Wampi will also start to droop. Its leaves may become brown and fragile. Whether you notice signs of overwatering or underwatering, it is important to take action and revive the health of your Wampi.

☀️ Light Full sun

Wampi favors moderate sunlight exposure, which promotes its optimal growth. The environment where it flourishes in its native range reflects this preference. Excessive sunlight can cause stress, while insufficient exposure can impede growth and vitality.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
How much sunlight does Wampi need every day?

When growing Wampi indoors, it's important to provide it with plenty of filtered or dappled light. To ensure this, place the plant in a sunny spot throughout the day. Keep in mind that the duration of daylight can change with the seasons, but a general guideline is to give Wampi at least 6 hours of light each day. This should include 3-6 hours of direct sunlight. Exposing the plant to indirect sunlight for several hours won't cause any harm, but it's essential to be cautious about direct sunlight.

What kind of sunlight does Wampi need?

Wampi in the wild receive ample sunlight throughout the day, but it is dappled and indirect as it shines through the leafy canopy of tall trees above them. When grown indoors, Wampi plants need to be placed in a sunny windowsill or provided with bright indirect light using grow lights.

Should Wampi stay away from the sun?

Wampi can still be exposed to sunlight but it should be the right kind. Direct sun exposure, where the sunlight directly hits the plant, should be limited to no more than 6 hours per day. However, indirect light, which can be reflected off nearby objects or filtered through a sheer curtain, is fine. So, it's important to protect Wampi from too much direct sun.

How can I keep Wampi safe from the sun and heat?

If Wampi are not used to growing in direct sunlight, it can harm them. To protect your Wampi from the sun, there are a few methods you can use. Firstly, pick a spot that gets indirect light throughout the day. If the location is still too bright, move the plant further away from the window or cover the window with a light curtain or blinds. These methods will keep your Wampi safe from getting burnt by the sun or experiencing excessive heat.

What happens to Wampi if it gets too much sunlight? --> If Wampi gets too much sunlight, what happens to it?

Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant's leaves, especially the upper leaves that receive the most sun. When leaves get scorched, they develop brown and dry spots. Entire leaves may also wilt and turn brown. Growing the plant in full sun can lead to the soil drying out too quickly. In extreme situations, excessive sun exposure can even result in the plant dying.

🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Wampi originates from temperate regions and favours temperatures between 68 and 100.4 °F (20 to 38 ℃). To achieve optimal growth, keep these temperatures throughout all seasons, making adjustments when necessary.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
FAQ
What temperature is best for Wampi?

To help your tropical plants thrive, it's best to maintain a temperature range of 75℉ to 90℉ (25-32℃). While different species can tolerate temperatures outside this range, sticking within a few degrees of these limits will ensure optimal growth. However, there are extreme temperature limits to be aware of. Anything below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) can hinder growth and cause issues with the leaves and stems. Low temperatures are particularly damaging, as even a light frost can lead to the death of your tropical plants. In fact, cellular death can occur rapidly, with some species dying within 12 to 24 hours.

Do Wampi need different temperatures at different growing stages?

Although Wampi can transition between different growing phases without changes in temperature, it is important to maintain consistency. Fluctuations in temperature can hinder its growth, regardless of the current phase. Therefore, it is recommended to provide a controlled environment. The optimal temperature range for Wampi is between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃), with emphasis on staying above the lower limit. While exceeding 90℉ (32℃) is not ideal, the plant, being tropical, can tolerate it to some extent. Conversely, temperatures below 50℉ (10℃), especially 40℉/5℃, can cause direct damage to this heat-loving species.

Does Wampi require varying temperatures during different seasons?

Wampi does not require different temperatures for different growing seasons. The key to taking care of this plant is to maintain the optimal temperature range. Therefore, it's advisable to keep the plant indoors so that you have control over the temperature, regardless of the external climate conditions. Additionally, light plays a crucial role in tropical species like Wampi. These plants prefer a moderate amount of sunlight, where the light is filtered or partially shaded. When growing your plants indoors, it is best to provide bright but indirect light. Excessive direct sunlight can harm the plant's leaves and hinder its growth.

What temperatures should be maintained to keep your Wampi healthy?

Here are three tips to help you take care of your plants: 1. Keep your plants away from windows during colder months: Cold air can leak into your home through cracks in the windows, and any plants placed near them will be affected. Move tropical plants to an area with bright but indirect light, while avoiding potential drafts. 2. Watch out for dry patches, which may indicate too much sunlight or heat: If you notice white or scorched leaves, your plant may be getting too much heat or sunlight. This can lead to dehydration and hinder growth. Dry spots can spread and eventually cause your plants to die if left unaddressed. 3. Be cautious of frost: Colder temperatures and frost can damage plants by disrupting their water circulation. This can lead to a lack of moisture in the stems and leaves. Look out for signs of hydrosis (a water-soaked appearance) and if the issue persists, the plant may shrivel and turn dark brown or black, eventually leading to death.

How do I keep my Wampi at the right temperature?

To maintain the right temperature range for Wampi, it is important to monitor both the climate and humidity. It is recommended to keep each species in a room with climate control, as this helps to mimic its natural habitat. Additionally, humidity levels directly impact temperature, so it is crucial to keep an eye on them. If needed, you can use a humidifier or lightly mist the leaves with water to increase humidity in your growing space. If you plan to grow Wampi outside, it may be challenging to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity balance. In such cases, it is best to move the plant indoors to a room where you can closely control the climate. This will help your plant thrive and reach its full potential.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Choose organic fertilizers (e.g., fish emulsion or compost) instead of chemical ones for Wampi. Provide higher levels of nitrogen and phosphorus to young plants during spring. Incorporate compost or fertilizer into the soil before or after planting. For mature plants, supplement in spring with a balanced fertilizer or one specific to identified deficiencies. Nutrient deficiency causes small leaves, short branches, yellow or bronze foliage, acidic fruits, premature fruit drop, and fruit splitting.

FAQ
Why should I add fertilizer to my Wampi plant?

If the soil in your area is rich, fertilizing may not be necessary. However, if the soil lacks nutrients, it can result in a Wampi plant failing to produce an adequate amount of leaves, flowers, and fruits. To determine the nutrient levels in the soil, a soil test is recommended. Nutrient deficiency in Wampi plants can lead to small leaves and short branches, yellowing or bronze leaves, and fruits that are more acidic and less tasty. Certain nutrient deficiencies can also cause fruits to fall prematurely or split.

When should I fertilize my Wampi for the best results?

To support strong leaf and root development for future growth, it is recommended to give young Wampi plants higher nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer. The best time to apply fertilizer is in the spring of their first growing season. It's also a good idea to mix compost or another fertilizer into the soil before or right after planting. For mature plants, supplement with a balanced fertilizer or one that addresses specific soil deficiencies in your area every few years during the spring and summer as needed. Avoid fertilizing Wampi plants in the autumn or winter.

When is it not a good idea to put fertilizer on my Wampi plant?

To ensure the well-being of your Wampi plant, refrain from fertilizing it in certain situations. Avoid fertilizing after pruning, when the plant is experiencing disease, insect infestation, or any form of stress. It is important to note that fertilizer is beneficial only for addressing nutrient deficiency in the soil, and cannot resolve other underlying issues that may harm the Wampi. Therefore, accurately diagnosing the problem will help avoid unnecessary fertilizer application when another factor may be the true cause. Furthermore, do not fertilize the Wampi during the winter months or during hot and dry periods in the summer.

What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Wampi plant?

Most types of Wampi thrive in tropical areas with a significant amount of decaying organic matter. Fertilizer can be beneficial for meeting their macronutrient and micronutrient needs. If you're growing Wampi for fruit, it's recommended to use a high-phosphorus organic fertilizer like mushroom compost, bone meal, or poultry manure to promote the growth of delicious and well-formed fruits. When buying fertilizer, check the label for the NPK ratio, which indicates the amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Although low nitrogen is a common soil deficiency, conducting a soil test is the best way to determine which nutrients may be lacking and require additional supplementation.

How should I add fertilizer to my Wampi plant?

When using fertilizer, it is important to follow the instructions provided. It is better to use too little fertilizer than too much, so it is advisable to be cautious when adding fertilizers. This is especially true for chemical fertilizers, as they are usually very concentrated compared to organic fertilizers. Liquid fertilizers are typically diluted with water and then used to water the Wampi plant. Granular or dry fertilizers can be spread around the base of the plant, taking care not to let any fertilizer come into direct contact with the plant itself. It is common practice to use fertilizer once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers can be mixed into the soil before planting or spread as a layer over the top of the soil for newly-planted or mature plants.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Wampi is a tropical plant that produces fragrant flowers and edible fruits. To promote healthy growth and robust fruit production, it is important to prune the plant from early to late spring. This involves cutting back overgrown branches to enhance airflow and maintain an open canopy. By doing so, you improve light penetration and increase the plant's resistance to pests.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Clausena
Family
Rutaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
3.05 m to 6.1 m
Mature Spread
30 cm to 61 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall
Native Area
Vietnam, Laos, China

Tags (5)

Common Names (4)

en Chinese clausena
en Wampi
en Wampee
en Vampi