Hortiforum

General Info – Wampi, Wampee

A vastly undercultivated member of the Citrus family, the subtropical Wampee possesses all the desirable attributes of its botanical brethren in the Rutaceae family.
Withs its ornamental form, hardy nature, and bountiful yields of tangy, aromatic fruits, the Wampee has become widely cultivation across South East Asia and is increasingly finding favour in other tropical and subtropical regions. Resembling Grapes in size and appearance, although distinctly different in taste with its sub-acidic, zesty flavour, Wampees are best left to fully ripen to achieve maximum sweetness from what is often initially sour fruit. Easily peeled with its delicate, thin skin, the fruit reveals a semi-translucent juicy flesh within, offering a refreshing, pleasant experience. While acidity and sweetness may vary among cultivars, all boast a citrusy essence that will surely appeal to any Grapefruit or Tangelo lover. Of the two most commonly available varieties, the Guy Sam has a sub-acidic flavour while the Yeem Pay is sweet and aromatic. Opting for known cultivars ensures consistent results, as seedling-grown fruits can exhibit significant variability and may be unpleasantly sour. Exceptionally thirst-quenching and delightful when consumed fresh, these Vitamin-C rich fruits can also be transformed into jams, jellies, or beverages, ideal for tempering their occasionally tart nature.
Generally, Wampees tolerate similar conditions as their Citrus counterparts, thriving in fertile, slightly acidic loam soil with good moisture retention and drainage. While they endure light frosts, harsher frosts can harm mature plants and prove fatal to young trees. Consistent, moderate watering is essential year-round, particularly for young plants with poor drought tolerance. Established plants may withstand various soil types, windy positions, and even moderate salt exposure, with pests and diseases rarely a significant issue. Full sun exposure ensures optimal growth, fruiting, and overall plant vigour. Once established, Wampees require minimal maintenance while yielding substantial crops, often exceeding forty kilograms of fruit.
Ideal for backyard cultivation, Wampees take the form of either an large shrubs or small-medium sized tree, rarely exceeding 6 metres in height and easily maintained at lower heights. Adorned with evergreen foliage, characterized by dark green, veined, pinnate leaves that often curl inward, these plants provide year-round visual appeal. Their dense growth pattern not only offers shade and wind protection but also ensures privacy when desired. In winter and early spring, a profusion of delicate white flowers adorns the Wampee, emerging from terminal panicles. Self-pollinating, with robust fruit sets in developed varieties, some fruits may even be seedless when not cross-pollinated. Clusters of up to eighty fruits ripen on hanging panicles, creating a picturesque display and facilitating effortless harvest. Pruning should be undertaken cautiously and immediately post-harvest, as Wampees fruit on terminal growth, and excessive or poorly timed pruning can diminish foliage and future yields.
With their aromatic clusters of summer-ripening fruits, compact size, and pleasing aesthetic, Wampees deserve broader cultivation across subtropical and warm temperate climates where their Citrus kin are already cherished.

Plant Profile/Properties