The Valencia Orange Tree
Valencia oranges are the main variety used in the production of orange juice. This tree is somewhat unique in that it will take 12-15 months for the fruit to ripen. So, you’ll see fresh blooms next to fully grown ready-to-pick oranges at the same time! When the genome of this orange was mapped, it was found out that it’s actually a backcross hybrid between pomelo and mandarin orange. This also explains why Valencias have a slight alternate bearing tendency.
Basic Information
Common Name | Valencia Orange |
Botanical Name | Citrus sinensis ‘Valencia’ |
Location of Origin | Santa Ana, California |
USDA Zones | 9-11 |
Can be grown in containers? | Yes |
Fruit Characteristics
Fruit Size | Medium-large |
Fruit Shape | Round |
Fruit Taste | Sweet |
Rind Thickness | Medium |
Rind Texture | Smooth |
Rind Color | Orange |
Flesh Color | Orange |
Easy to Peel? | Fairly easy |
Seeds | Some |
Tree Details
Has Thorns? | Small, not very thorny |
Foliage Color | Green |
Foliage Size | Medium-large |
Flower Color | White |
Flower Size | Medium-large |
Mature Tree Height in Ground | 8′ – 10′ |
Fruit Bearing Age | 3- 4 years old |
Alternate Bearing? | Somewhat |
Heat to Sweeten Fruit? | Yes |
Growing Conditions
Temperature | Hardy to 32 ºF |
Self-fertile? | Yes |
Sunlight Required | Full Sun |
Bloom Season in Minnesota | Spring |
Harvest Season in Minnesota | Winter |
Average Spring/Summer Watering | Once every 1-2 weeks, more often when hot |
Average Fall/Winter Watering | Once every 3 weeks |
Guides for Growing in Containers
Images
