Wampee (Clausena lansium)

Common Names: Wampee, Huang Pi, Wampi, Chinese Wampee, Wong Pei
Family: Rutaceae
Origin: Southern China and Southeast Asia

Wampee is a rare tropical evergreen tree known for its clusters of small, juicy fruits that combine sweet and tangy flavors. This versatile tree is a favorite in Southeast Asia and southern China, where its fruit is enjoyed fresh, dried, or preserved. The Wampee tree is an attractive addition to gardens, featuring fragrant, feathery foliage and ornamental fruit clusters. 

Fruits: Wampee produces small, round to oval fruits with thin, golden-yellow skin and translucent, juicy flesh. The flavor ranges from sweet to tart, depending on the variety, and is often compared to a mix of grape, lime, and passionfruit. The yellow, oval fruits grow in clusters on the branches and become sweeter as they ripen. Their tart, citrus-like skin, and sweet, juicy pulp are similar to their kumquat relatives, and they can be eaten raw, preserved, or made into jellies, fruit drinks, and pies. 

Foliage: The tree has lush, pinnate leaves with a anise meets citrus-like fragrance, adding ornamental and aromatic value. The fragrant Wampee leaves are used in curries, and the leaves, fruits, seeds, and roots are used in Southeast Asian medicine.

Growth Habit: Wampee grows as a medium-sized tree, typically 10-25 feet tall, with a spreading canopy, making it suitable for home gardens or small orchards. Wampee grows in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-draining soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. It is not particular about soil type and may be tolerant of salt spray. Water while the tree is establishing and during dry periods, and be careful of pruning since the fruits develop on terminal branches.

Nutritional Value: Wampee is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, supporting immune health, digestion, and overall wellness.