Description
The Washington Navel orange is a popular variety of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) known for its seedless, easy-to-peel fruit. Here's a description of the plant:
Plant Overview
- Type: Evergreen fruit tree.
- Height: Typically grows between 6 to 15 feet (1.8 to 4.5 meters) when cultivated but can reach up to 30 feet (9 meters) in ideal conditions.
- Spread: Has a rounded, spreading canopy with dense, dark green foliage.
Leaves
- Shape: Oval to oblong.
- Size: Approximately 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) long.
- Color: Glossy, dark green on the top, with a lighter green underside.
- Texture: Leathery and thick.
Flowers
- Blooming Season: Spring.
- Appearance: Small, white, fragrant flowers that are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
- Fragrance: Strong, sweet citrus scent.
Fruit
- Size: Medium to large, typically 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) in diameter.
- Shape: Round to slightly oval.
- Color: Bright orange.
- Peel: Thick and easy to remove, with a slightly pebbly texture.
- Flesh: Seedless, juicy, and sweet, with a deep orange color.
- Ripening Season: Generally matures in late fall to winter, often between November and January.
Growth Requirements
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily).
- Watering: Needs regular watering, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Temperature: Thrives in subtropical to tropical climates but can tolerate mild frost.
Uses
- Culinary: Primarily grown for its fruit, which is commonly eaten fresh, used in juices, or added to various recipes.
- Ornamental: Often planted in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and colorful fruit.