Arancio Lanelate

Class

Dicotyledons

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Rutaceae

Order

Sapindales

Genus

Citrus

Species

C. x sinensis

Description

Medium-sized evergreen polyennial plant, cultivated for its fruit with endocarp with a distinctive flavour characterised by delicious sour notes. The luxuriant spring flowering is shown by a multitude of small flowers called zagaras, in some varieties so intensely fragrant that they are also appreciated in ornamental settings. It expresses best vegetative growth in areas with a warm climate, exposed to full sun in well-drained soil.

Variety description

Evergreen plant. It is characterised by a prolonged harvesting period, thus extending the ripening calendar

Curiosities and special features

The orange fruit is prized as a source of antioxidants including vitamin C, which has an important anti-inflammatory and immune system defence action. Widely used in cooking for the preparation of preserves, jams, juices or to give a unique accent to first courses or desserts, it is also used in cosmetics and perfumery.

Origin and distribution

A species native to the subtropical biome of southern China. The hybrid Citrus x sinensis derives from a cross between a pomelo and a mandarin tree, i.e. C. maxima × C. reticulata, which took place over 4000 years ago. According to some studies it was the Arabs in the 1700s who encouraged its spread in the Iberian peninsula while in the 1800s Portuguese navigators introduced the first oranges throughout the Mediterranean area; today present with a vast assortment of varieties, orange cultivation is widespread in Italy, particularly in the south.

Flower size

Flower is small, lending elegance to the thriving bloom.

Leaf

Leaf has a lanceolate lamina.

Fruit

The fruit is a round, seedless hesperidium weighing 90 to 140 g and measuring 5 to 7 cm in length and width, with a diameter of 5 to 8 cm. The texture is tender and the colour is unicoloured. The wrinkled skin is not edible. The ripening period extends from early winter to late spring. From a sensory point of view, the fruit is unscented, with a fresh taste and a sweetish flavour, characterised by a sugar content of 14 °Brix. Overall, it is a fruit of excellent quality.

Flowering period

It flowers from early spring to late spring for a duration of 15 to 30 days.

Leaf colour

Unicolour shades.

Plant height

The height of the plant varies from 1 to 4 m.

Lifespan

Polyennial evergreen plant.

Where to plant

Suitable for growing in spaces and contexts such as flower beds, balconies, large pots

Stem

The stem is woody, the variety has no thorns.

Flower

The flower has a simple, small form with a globular corolla and plain petals. It flowers from early spring to late spring, with a flowering period of between 15 and 30 days. It has citrusy and sweet notes and is fragrant with a penetrating aroma. It is not particularly attractive to pollinating insects.

Growth

Globular growing variety.

Plant habit

The plant develops a bushy habitus, also assuming ornamental value.

Branching

The branching is Medium overall.

PH

The pH of the ideal soil or medium for proper orange plant Growth ranges from acidic to alkaline, in the wide range of 5.0 to 7.5.

Soil preparation

Before transplanting, make an excavation proportionate to the size of the root ball by removing any bulky stones, continue by burying organic matter and, if the soil has poor drainage and is too compact, add sand.

Sun exposure

For thriving flowering followed by abundant fruiting, expose the plant to full sun.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 12 and 36 °C. The biological temperature is between 6 and 40 °C. In areas with harsh winters, it is recommended to protect the aerial part with non-woven fabric and to distribute a layer of mulch on the soil near the plant; if in pots, shelter the plant indoors and ensure adequate exposure to sunlight.

Use

Variety appreciated in the following areas of use:

Agribusiness Ornamental

Soil

It prefers a medium, light, loosely loosened soil; for use in large pots, a specific citrus soil containing peat and clay granules is recommended.

Growing tips

For proper vegetative growth and fructification, consider the following cultivation aspects:

Balanced fertilisation At least 10 hours of daylight

Planting

An appropriate planting pattern, defined before transplanting, is of primary importance to obtain a correct vegetative development and a luxuriant flowering with subsequent abundant fructification, in this regard we recommend an average density of 550 plants per hectare in consideration of the height reached at maturity and the plant's bearing. We suggest transplanting on non-dry soil and staking the hole walls to encourage root emission, also avoid sinking the root ball completely by keeping the collar off the soil surface and water immediately after planting.

Pruning

In winter, carry out training pruning by removing the taller, non-linear branches.

Propagation

Multiplication can take place by grafting.

Repotting

Repotting may be necessary if the plant shows stunted growth or when the roots have completely enveloped the present substrate. The use of a specific substrate for citrus fruits in suitably sized pots is recommended.

Watering

Use rainwater, or alternatively water from the aqueduct, either manually or by irrigation. When transplanting, assist the plant to ensure that it takes root properly in its new site, keeping the site at a constant humidity, then allow the soil or substrate to dry slightly between irrigation sessions, keeping it constantly moist but free of waterlogging. It is also advisable not to water the foliage during the late afternoon-evening to prevent the spread of plant diseases. Always check the moisture level of the soil and carefully observe the turgidity of the leaves as they are representative of the plant's water requirements.

Fertilising

During pre-transplant soil preparation, carry out a background fertilisation with slow-release organo-mineral fertiliser. Subsequently, from spring until the end of autumn, apply a granular or water-soluble organo-mineral fertiliser specifically for citrus plants to the soil or substrate regularly, without exceeding the doses and frequencies, to ensure uniform growth. Do not overdo the nitrogenous fertilisation.

Pet safety

Avoid administration; consult your veterinarian in case of ingestion.

Edibility for humans

The fruit is edible with or without skin depending on the variety and the type of phytosanitary treatment.

Toxicity for humans

The pulp or endocarp does not cause ingestion toxicity if taken in suitable quantities, however consider the specific case for possible intolerances or allergies.

Tip

Always keep a globular shape and ventilated inside, to avoid cochineal appearances