The sweet orange (Citrus × sinensis)

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.