Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium)

Family: Rutaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Citrus aurantium is an evergreen Tree growing to 9 m (29ft) by 6 m (19ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Apomictic (reproduce by seeds formed without sexual fusion), insects. The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in cakes etc. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; It is used in making marmalade and other preserves.; The fruit is about 5 - 7cm in diameter.; The rind of the fruit is often used as a flavouring in cakes etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Original habitat is obscure, possibly a back cross involving C. maxima X C. reticulata. (Zone 8)