The correct spelling of the botanical name "Citroncirus Webberi" is a matter of debate among experts. The word "citroncirus" is believed to be a combination of the words "citrus" and "poncirus", two closely related genera. The second part of the name, "Webberi", honors Walter Tennyson Swingle's colleague U.P. Hedrick, whose surname was originally Webber. The IPA phonetic transcription of "citroncirus" is /sɪtˈrɒnsaɪrəs/. The correct way to pronounce the full name is /sɪtˈrɒnsaɪrəs ˈwɛbəraɪ/.
Citroncirus webberi is a hybrid citrus tree that is a cross between the lemon tree (Citrus limon) and the kumquat tree (Fortunella spp.). It is a small evergreen tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family and is primarily grown for its edible fruits. The tree is believed to have originated in California, United States.
Citroncirus webberi is characterized by its compact size, typically ranging from 2 to 4 meters in height. It has dense foliage with glossy, dark green leaves that are slightly oval or elliptical in shape. The tree produces fragrant white flowers that are not only ornamental but also attract pollinators.
The fruits of Citroncirus webberi, commonly known as citrumelos or ponderosa lemons, are spherical to oval in shape and have a smooth, yellow skin similar to lemons. They are larger than typical lemons and have a thick, juicy flesh with a mildly acidic and sweet flavor. The fruits are commonly used in culinary applications, such as adding zest and juice in dishes, beverages, and desserts.
Citroncirus webberi is also valued for its tolerance to cold weather, making it suitable for cultivation in regions with mild winters. It is often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive foliage, flowering, and fruiting display.
In summary, Citroncirus webberi is a hybrid citrus tree that produces large fruits with a sweet and acidic flavor. It is known for its compact size, tolerance to cold weather, and ornamental qualities, making it a desirable addition to gardens and landscapes.
The word "Citroncirus Webberi" is not directly derived from any particular etymology or language. It is a taxonomic designation given to a specific hybrid species of citrus fruits, commonly known as the Fingered Citron.
The genus Citroncirus is a combination of two citrus genera, Citrus and Poncirus, reflecting the hybrid nature of this fruit. The specific epithet "Webberi" is an homage to the American botanist and horticulturist Walter Tennyson Swingle Webber (1878-1963), who made significant contributions to the field of citrus taxonomy and horticulture.
In summary, the etymology of "Citroncirus Webberi" is derived from the combination of the citrus genera and the honorific name of the botanist associated with the hybridization and study of the fruit.