Buddha's Hand Citron: The World's Most Exotic Citrus Fruit

Imagine walking into your kitchen and grabbing a fresh citrus fruit that looks like fingers reaching toward the sky. That's Buddha's hand citron, the world's strangest and most aromatic citrus fruit.

This isn't your typical lemon or orange. Buddha's hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) produces finger-like segments that contain no juice or pulp. Instead, you get pure, fragrant citrus oil and zest that can transform your cooking and fill your home with an intoxicating lemony scent.

At US Citrus Nursery, we've grown these exotic trees for over 20 years. Dr. Mani Skaria, our founder and professor emeritus of plant pathology, calls Buddha's hand "nature's most artistic citrus creation."

Key Takeaways

• Buddha's hand citron produces finger-like fruit segments with intense citrus fragrance
• The fruit contains no juice or pulp, only aromatic rind and pith perfect for zesting
• Fresh fruit sells for $5-24 per pound in specialty stores and restaurants
• The tree grows well in containers using proper soil and care methods
• Buddha's hand makes unique gifts and natural air fresheners

What Is Buddha's Hand Citron?

Buddha's hand citron (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) is a unique variety of citron that produces fruit split into finger-like segments. The name comes from its resemblance to the hands of a praying Buddha statue.

Unlike other citrus fruits, Buddha's hand contains no juice, pulp, or seeds. The entire fruit consists of fragrant rind and white pith. This makes it perfect for zesting, candying, and using as a natural air freshener.

The fruit typically measures 6-12 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. Each "finger" can be separated and used individually, making one fruit go a long way in the kitchen.

How Much Does Buddha's Hand Cost?

Fresh Buddha's hand citron sells for $5-24 per pound, depending on your location and supplier. Here's what you can expect to pay:

Source	Price Range	Availability
Specialty grocery stores	$12-24/lb	Limited, seasonal
Asian markets	$8-15/lb	Better selection
Online retailers	$10-20/lb + shipping	Year-round
High-end restaurants	$15-30/lb	Commercial only
Your own tree	$0.50/lb	Unlimited harvest

Growing your own Buddha's hand tree pays for itself after just one harvest season. A mature tree can produce 20-50 pounds of fruit annually.

What Does Buddha's Hand Taste Like?

Buddha's hand has an intense, sweet lemon fragrance with floral notes. The rind tastes like concentrated lemon zest without the bitterness found in other citrus peels.

The white pith (normally bitter in other citrus) is mild and slightly sweet in Buddha's hand. This means you can use the entire fruit without worrying about bitter flavors.

Many people describe the aroma as "lemony perfume" that fills an entire room. Place one fruit on your kitchen counter and guests will immediately notice the incredible scent.

How Do You Use Buddha's Hand?

Buddha's hand serves multiple purposes in cooking and around the home:

Culinary Uses:

• Zest for baking, cocktails, and desserts
• Candied citron for fruitcakes and confections
• Infused spirits and liqueurs
• Salad garnish and flavor enhancement
• Tea blends and aromatherapy

Non-Culinary Uses:

• Natural air freshener (lasts 2-4 weeks)
• Insect repellent (similar to lavender)
• Table decoration and conversation starter
• Traditional Chinese New Year gifts
• Perfume and soap making

Preparation Tips:

1. Wash the fruit thoroughly under cool water
2. Separate individual "fingers" by gently twisting
3. Use a microplane grater for fine zest
4. Store unused portions in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks

Can You Grow Buddha's Hand Trees at Home?

Yes, Buddha's hand trees grow well in containers and can thrive indoors or outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. These trees actually prefer container growing because you can control their environment.

Buddha's hand trees need the same care as other citrus varieties. The key is providing proper soil drainage, consistent nutrition, and adequate sunlight.

At US Citrus Nursery, we use our Three Plant Pillars system for all citrus trees, including Buddha's hand:

Pillar 1: Mineral-Based Soil

Dr. Mani's Magic Super Soil provides permanent drainage and aeration. Unlike potting mix (which is just decomposing pine bark), Super Soil never breaks down or suffocates roots.

Pillar 2: Live Microbials

Plant Super Boost contains over 2,000 species of beneficial bacteria and fungi. These microbes protect roots, unlock nutrients, and build natural disease resistance.

Pillar 3: Complete Organic Nutrition

Crab, Kelp & Amino Acids (7-4-4) provides all 12 essential nutrients without synthetic salts that kill beneficial microbes.

When all three pillars work together, your Buddha's hand tree becomes nearly bulletproof against common problems like root rot, yellowing leaves, and pest issues.

Why Is Buddha's Hand So Expensive?

Several factors contribute to Buddha's hand's high price:

1. Limited Growing Regions: Most commercial production occurs in California and Asia
2. Seasonal Availability: Fresh fruit is only available certain times of year
3. Shipping Challenges: The delicate fruit doesn't transport well
4. High Demand: Fancy restaurants and specialty markets compete for limited supply
5. Unique Appearance: No other fruit looks or smells quite like Buddha's hand

Growing your own eliminates these cost factors. A single tree can produce enough fruit for your family plus extras to share or sell.

What's the Difference Between Buddha's Hand and Regular Citron?

Buddha's hand is a special variety of citron (Citrus medica) that naturally splits into finger-like segments. Regular citron produces large, oval fruits with thick rinds but normal internal structure.

Here's how they compare:

Feature	Buddha's Hand	Regular Citron
Shape	Finger-like segments	Oval, lemon-shaped
Internal structure	No pulp or juice	Some pulp and juice
Fragrance	Intense, floral	Mild, lemony
Uses	Zest, decoration	Zest, candying
Price	$5-24/lb	$3-8/lb
Availability	Very limited	Limited

Both varieties offer incredible zesting potential, but Buddha's hand provides more dramatic presentation and stronger fragrance.

Growing Buddha's Hand: What You Need to Know

Buddha's hand trees are surprisingly easy to grow when you give them the right foundation. Here's what successful growers know:

Container Requirements:

• Start with a 10-gallon pot, upgrade to 20+ gallons as tree matures
• Ensure multiple drainage holes in the bottom
• Use mineral-based soil, never regular potting mix

Light Requirements:

• 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• South-facing windows work well indoors
• LED grow lights can supplement natural light

Watering Schedule:

• Water when top 2 inches of soil feel dry
• Always water until water runs from drainage holes
• In mineral-based soil, overwatering is nearly impossible

Temperature Preferences:

• Ideal range: 65-85°F
• Can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F
• Move indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F

Fertilization:

• Apply Crab, Kelp & Amino Acids monthly (1 oz per inch of trunk diameter)
• Skip fertilizing when temperatures drop below 40°F
• Organic fertilizers work with soil biology instead of against it

The biggest mistake new growers make is using regular potting mix. That pine bark sawdust suffocates roots as it decomposes. Your tree needs permanent, mineral-based soil that provides constant oxygen flow.

Buddha's Hand Cultural Significance

Buddha's hand holds special meaning in Asian cultures, particularly Chinese traditions:

Chinese New Year: Buddha's hand symbolizes happiness, longevity, and good fortune. Families display the fruit during celebrations and give it as gifts.

Feng Shui: The upward-reaching "fingers" represent prayers ascending to heaven. Many people place Buddha's hand in their homes for positive energy.

Buddhist Symbolism: The closed "fingers" represent meditation and prayer, while open varieties symbolize generosity and giving.

Culinary Traditions: Chinese cuisine uses Buddha's hand in teas, preserves, and ceremonial dishes. The fruit appears in ancient recipes dating back thousands of years.

This cultural significance contributes to high demand and premium pricing, especially during Chinese New Year season.

Common Buddha's Hand Growing Problems (And Solutions)

Even with proper care, Buddha's hand trees can face challenges. Here's how to solve common issues:

Yellowing Leaves:

• Cause: Usually poor drainage or synthetic fertilizer burn
• Solution: Switch to mineral-based soil and organic fertilizers

No Fruit Production:

• Cause: Lack of sunlight, poor nutrition, or tree too young
• Solution: Provide 6+ hours sunlight, consistent feeding, patience (trees fruit at 3-5 years)

Pest Issues:

• Cause: Stressed trees attract insects
• Solution: Build strong root health with proper soil and microbes

Root Rot:

• Cause: Decomposing potting mix consuming root oxygen
• Solution: Repot in permanent, mineral-based soil immediately

Remember: healthy roots create healthy plants. When you establish the Three Plant Pillars foundation, most problems disappear naturally.

Where to Buy Buddha's Hand Trees

Buddha's hand trees are specialty items not found at typical garden centers. You need a nursery that specializes in citrus varieties and understands proper growing methods.

US Citrus Nursery grows Buddha's hand trees using the same methods we use for our commercial citrus operation. Every tree ships in Dr. Mani's Magic Super Soil, so you get the permanent, mineral-based foundation your tree needs.

Our Buddha's Hand Citron trees arrive healthy and ready to produce fruit. Plus, you get access to our complete care guide and customer support from our citrus experts.

Ready to grow the world's most exotic citrus fruit? Browse our complete citrus collection and discover why thousands of home growers trust US Citrus Nursery for premium citrus trees.

About the Author: Dr. Mani Skaria is Professor Emeritus of Plant Pathology and founder of US Citrus Nursery. With over 40 years of citrus research and 250,000 trees grown at our South Texas facility, Dr. Mani brings unmatched expertise to home citrus growing.