Good Self-Pollinating Fruit Trees for Indoors

Meyer Lemons

• Meyer lemons are a possible hybrid between mandarin oranges and lemons. First discovered by Frank N. Meyer in 1908, this lemon hybrid was found growing in an ornamental pot in Peking, China. The 2 1/4- to 3-inch-wide and 2 1/2- to 3 1/2-inch-high fruit has a light-orange peel. Containing 10 segments, the pale-yellow flesh is moderately acid with a mild lemon flavor. Meyer lemons can be everbearing, but tend to produce the most fruit from December to April.

Persian Limes

• Persian limes, also known as Tahitian limes and Bearss limes are a nearly thornless, spreading tree with white blossoms. Larger than Mexican limes, the fruit is approximately 2 to 2 1/2 inches in diameter with a thin skin and seedless flesh. The juicy, aromatic flesh is acidic and finely textured, making this a great home specimen. You will always know when your limes are fully mature: they will fall off the tree when ripe.

Calamondin Oranges

• Calamondin oranges are also known as "mini" oranges. Calamondin oranges are a hardy variety and often grown as an ornamental rather than for the edible portion of the plant. Originating from China, calamondin oranges are small, round and only 1 inch in diameter. The light-orange fruit resembles a tangerine. Calamondin oranges will produce all year, but will produce the heaviest harvests from November to June.

Kumquats

• Kumquats, also called kinkan, produce small, pear-shaped fruit that is bright-yellow to orange in color. Kumquats are unique in that the peel is edible with a thick, aromatic and spicy flavor. The fruit matures in late November and can be candied or used in marmalades. Besides the benefits of the sweet fruit, kumquat also has attractive, shiny green leaves and delicate white blossoms that bloom in the summer.