If you’ve ever tried to find a Calamansi plant in the UK, you’ll know it’s not the easiest task. Calamansi (also called Calamondin) is a citrus fruit popular in the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. It’s tangy, aromatic, and perfect for drinks, marinades, and cooking — which is why I wanted to grow my own.
This post is about my journey trying (and failing!) to grow Calamansi before finally finding a reliable supplier in the UK — Patch Plants — and how my new plant is thriving.
My First Attempt at Growing Calamansi (2021–2023)
Back in 2021, at the height of the pandemic, I bought a Calamansi seedling from Etsy. The seller was based in America, and considering the shipping challenges at the time, I was amazed that my order arrived in just 2 weeks.
Unfortunately, my first attempt didn’t end well. I received 2 seedlings and despite looking healthy for the first couple of years, both plants failed to survive in 2023. They started turning yellow, likely due to overwatering or lack of sunlight.
I’ll be the first to admit: I’m not a natural “green thumb.” Between work and daily life, I didn’t always give them the attention they needed.
Trying Again in 2025 – Discovering Patch Plants
Fast forward to 2025 — I decided to give Calamansi another go. This time, I searched specifically for a UK supplier of citrus plants and came across Patch Plants.
They had a wide range of plants, from tropical species to hardy indoor varieties. I ordered:
- Calamansi plant – £30
- Hawaiian Palm (Brighamia insignis) – £16
Delivery & First Impressions
My order arrived in perfect condition, well-packaged, and clearly handled with care. The Calamansi plant even had a few fruits already growing — such a pleasant surprise!
Inside the box, Patch Plants included a care instruction card, which made it easy for me to get started. I placed my new Calamansi outdoors in a sunny spot and gave it a good watering right away.
One Month Update – Flowering & Fruiting
It’s been just over a month since my Calamansi arrived, and so far, it’s thriving:
- Most of the initial fruits have been harvested.
- The plant is now in flowering season, with beautiful, fragrant white blooms.
- No signs of pests or yellowing leaves.
Compared to my previous attempt, I can already see the difference that buying from a local, reputable seller makes.
Why I Recommend Patch Plants for Calamansi
One standout feature of Patch Plants is their ‘Plant Doctor’ service. If you ever have an issue — whether it’s pests, leaf drop, or watering problems — you can contact them for expert advice. I’ve never had this option with other plant sellers before, and it really gives peace of mind.
Calamansi Care Tips for UK Growers
If you’re planning to grow Calamansi in the UK, here are a few tips based on my experience and advice from the Patch Plants care guide:
- Sunlight – Calamansi loves bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. A south-facing window or outdoor space works best.
- Watering – Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause yellow leaves.
- Temperature – Protect from frost. If winter temps drop below 10°C, bring the plant indoors.
- Feeding – Use a citrus fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring to early autumn).
- Pruning – Trim dead or crossing branches to keep the plant healthy and encourage more flowers.
Where to Buy Calamansi in the UK
While some online marketplaces like Etsy or eBay list Calamansi plants, I recommend buying from a trusted UK-based seller like Patch Plants. This ensures:
- Faster shipping (less stress on the plant)
- Proper packaging for delicate citrus trees
- Access to aftercare and advice
Final Thoughts
My first Calamansi attempt was a flop, but thanks to Patch Plants, I now have a healthy, fruiting plant right here in the UK. If you’ve been searching for where to buy Calamansi in the UK, I’d say this is the place to start.
Growing Calamansi takes patience, but the reward — fresh citrus for your kitchen and the sweet fragrance of its flowers — is absolutely worth it.
