Kumquats are small citrus fruits in the genus Citrus, formerly classified separately as Fortunella, native to China and cultivated across East and Southeast Asia. Unlike most citrus fruits, the kumquat is eaten whole, skin included, because its thin, sweet rind offsets the tart, acidic pulp inside. The fruit is about the size of a large olive or small egg and is eaten fresh, candied, or preserved in syrup or marmalade, and in parts of China and Vietnam it is also used decoratively and symbolically during Lunar New Year celebrations.
In the Other Atlases
- Also in Geography Atlas: China, originated there.
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