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Conservatory GreenhouseShrubsSynonym

Citrus sinensis

sweet orange

A spiny, evergreen tree to 4m tall, with glossy, ovate leaves to 10cm long. From late spring to summer it bears fragrant, white flowers to 2cm across, these are followed by spherical, orange fruit. Oranges are best grown in a cool or temperate greenhouse or conservatory and moved outside during the summer months

Other common names
orange
Synonyms
Citrus × nobilis Ortanique Group
Citrus 'Arancio'
see moreCitrus × tangelo 'Ortanique'
Citrus × nobilis 'Ortantique'
Citrus reticulata (Mandarin Group) 'Ortanique'
Citrus sinensis
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green Orange
Summer White Green Orange
Autumn Green Orange
Winter Green Orange
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Rutaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit harmful to skin with sunlight/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Citrus are typically evergreen shrubs or trees, frequently spiny, with simple, leathery, aromatic leaves, usually with winged stalks, and often fragrant white or pink-tinged flowers, followed by large, juicy fruits

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow as a conservatory or greenhouse plant, in a container of peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit, in full light, with shade from hot sun. In growth during spring and summer, water freely, and mist daily. Apply fertilisers formulated for citrus, throughout the year, following the manufacturer’s instructions; water sparingly in winter. See citrus cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or layer in early spring. Sow seed at 16°C in spring; seedlings do not come true to type

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Bedding
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
  • Edible fruit
Pruning

See pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs and glasshouse red spider mite

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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