Description
The sweet orange (Citrus × sinensis) is a small evergreen tree in the Rutaceae family. It is widely cultivated for its fruit, which is a type of berry known as a hesperidium. Here is a detailed description of the sweet orange plant:
Plant Characteristics
- Height: Typically grows to 7.5-15 meters (25-50 feet) tall.
- Canopy: Dense and rounded, with a spread of similar width.
- Leaves: Evergreen, leathery, and ovate to elliptic in shape. They are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green underneath, with a distinctive winged petiole.
Flowers
- Appearance: White, fragrant, and about 2-3 cm in diameter.
- Arrangement: Solitary or in small clusters.
- Blooming Period: Usually in spring, although in some climates it can bloom throughout the year.
Fruit
- Type: Berry (hesperidium).
- Shape: Generally round to oval.
- Size: 5-10 cm in diameter.
- Skin: Smooth, thin to medium-thick, and orange when ripe.
- Flesh: Juicy and segmented, typically orange in color.
- Taste: Sweet, with varying degrees of tartness depending on the variety.
Growth Requirements
- Climate: Prefers subtropical to tropical climates.
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures ranging from 15-30°C (59-86°F). Sensitive to frost.
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
- Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but does not tolerate waterlogging.
Cultivation
- Propagation: Usually propagated by grafting onto rootstocks to improve disease resistance and adaptability.
- Pruning: Light pruning to remove dead or crossing branches and to maintain shape.
- Pests/Diseases: Susceptible to pests like aphids, scale insects, and diseases such as citrus canker and greening disease.
Uses
- Culinary: Consumed fresh or used in juices, salads, desserts, and as flavoring.
- Nutritional: Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.