Orange tree

Also known as: Orange, Sweet Orange, Navel Orange

Citrus sinensis, commonly known as the sweet orange tree, is an evergreen tree with a rounded crown and glossy, dark green, oval-shaped leaves. It produces fragrant white blossoms in spring, followed by bright orange, juicy fruits that ripen in autumn to winter. Typically reaching 2–4 metres in cultivation, it is valued both as a fruit-bearing plant and an ornamental with glossy foliage.

Scientific classification

Species: Orange tree (Citrus sinensis)
Genus: Information to be completed
Family: Rutaceae

Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Toxicity: Tree · Fruit Edible
Plant type: 2 - 4 metres
Height: 1.5 - 3 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Upright
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Orange tree pictures

Distribution of Orange tree

Distribution map

Southeast Asia and southern China

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Quick identification of Orange tree

Information to be completed

Orange tree care guide

Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Fertilizing

Every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring to summer)

Pruning

Prune in late winter to remove dead, diseased or crossing branches, and to maintain an open, balanced shape.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by grafting onto suitable rootstocks (e.g., Poncirus trifoliata). Seed can be used but seedlings vary and take longer to fruit.

Growing

Plant in full sun in a sheltered, frost-free location with well-drained, loamy or sandy soil. Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the top few centimetres of soil to dry between waterings. Apply a balanced citrus fertiliser every 2–4 weeks from spring to late summer. In colder climates, grow in containers and overwinter indoors or in a greenhouse, as the tree is not fully hardy.

More growing and care information →