Flying Dragon Tree Seeds | Trifoliate Orange | Hardy Orange | (Poncirus trifoliata 'Flying Dragon')
Flying Dragon Tree Seeds | Trifoliate Orange | Hardy Orange | (Poncirus trifoliata 'Flying Dragon')
Curved thorns, twisted branches, and cold-hardy citrus magic.
Poncirus trifoliata ‘Flying Dragon’ is a fascinating, cold-hardy citrus species prized for its uniquely contorted form and fierce curved thorns. This deciduous relative of true oranges produces fragrant white blossoms, small bitter fruit, and striking twisted branches that make it a standout ornamental and excellent natural barrier hedge.
Unlike most citrus trees, the Flying Dragon thrives in cooler climates and tolerates frost, making it ideal for gardeners seeking a rare, hardy citrus to grow in temperate zones. Its dramatic silhouette shines in all seasons—bare and architectural in winter, lush and aromatic in spring and summer.
Why Grow Flying Dragon Orange?
- Most cold-hardy citrus species, thriving where others can’t
- Produces small, fragrant white flowers and decorative golden fruit
- Twisting branches and curved thorns create a stunning ornamental hedge
- Highly valued as a citrus rootstock for grafting oranges, lemons, and limes
Growing Details
- Botanical Name: Poncirus trifoliata ‘Flying Dragon’
- Common Names: Flying Dragon Orange, Hardy Orange
- Germination Rate: 91%
- Harvest Year: 2024
- Seed Source: Georgia, USA
- Stratification: 30–45 days cold stratification recommended
- USDA Zones: 5–9
- Soil: Well-drained; tolerates loamy, sandy, or slightly acidic soil
- Light: Full sun
- Mature Size: 8–15 ft tall × 6–12 ft wide
- Growth Rate: Moderate (12–18" per year)
- Packet Sizes: 5, 10, 25, 50, or 100 seeds
Ecological Importance
- Fragrant blooms attract honeybees and native pollinators in early spring.
- Fruit provides late-season forage for birds and small mammals.
- Dense, thorny growth offers protective nesting cover for songbirds.
Fun Facts
- The only cold-hardy member of the citrus family—surviving temperatures near 0°F.
- Its twisted, thorned branches inspired the name “Flying Dragon.”
- Used worldwide as rootstock for commercial citrus due to its disease resistance and dwarfing traits.
Evergreen Seed Co. delivers premium, high-germination tree seeds for growers who value rarity, resilience, and beauty. Each order includes detailed germination instructions and seed-handling guidance for guaranteed success.
FAQ
FAQ
Do you pre-stratify the seeds?
Most of our seeds are not pre-stratified. We ship them unstratified so you can control germination timing based on your local growing season. We sell to all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and since each region has different planting windows, pre-stratifying would risk seeds germinating in transit or before you're ready to plant.
True stratification requires cold, moist conditions, which can lead to premature sprouting or mold if not timed properly. To avoid this, we store most seeds in dry cold conditions to preserve viability — but this does not initiate stratification.
Do any of your seeds need to stay moist? (Recalcitrant seeds)
Yes — some species we offer are recalcitrant, meaning they must remain moist to stay viable and cannot be dried out. Examples include: Chestnut, Hazelnut, Paw Paw, etc.
These seeds are shipped in moist cold storage and are clearly labeled on the product page when applicable. Please refrigerate immediately upon arrival and follow included care instructions.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the United States and Canada only. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to other countries without a phytosanitary certificate, which is required by most international customs agencies.
If you're interested in shipping outside North America, please contact us. Note that a phytosanitary certificate typically adds $60–$80 USD per seed type and must be arranged in advance.
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & Packaging
Hand-packed in resealable zipper kraft paper seed bags
Stratification and planting instructions included with every order
1 free bonus seed pack included with every order
Ships within 3–5 business days via USPS
Return Policy
Return Policy
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns on seeds.
However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days and we’ll make it right.
