Valencia Orange (Citrus × Sinensis ’Valencia’)

Classic Juicing Citrus with Vibrant Flavor

Common Names: Valencia Orange, Summer Orange
Family: Rutaceae
Origin: Spain

The Valencia Orange (Citrus × sinensis ’Valencia’) is the quintessential juicing orange, renowned for its bright, sweet flavor and high juice content. Named after the city of Valencia in Spain, this variety is one of the most popular and widely grown oranges in the world, especially prized for its double crop and long late-season harvest. Valencia Oranges are perfect for fresh eating, juicing, and adding a burst of citrus flavor to various culinary creations.

Distinctive Features and Uses

Fruits: Valencia Oranges are medium to large, with a thin, smooth, bright orange rind that is easy to peel. The flesh is juicy, sweet, and has a few seeds. This orange is especially known for its vibrant flavor and rich juice, making it the go-to choice for freshly squeezed orange juice. Valencia Oranges are also ideal for slicing into fruit salads, adding to desserts, or using in savory dishes where a burst of citrus is desired.

Leaves: The tree features dark green, glossy leaves that are evergreen, providing a lush, vibrant appearance year-round. The foliage is aromatic, releasing a fresh citrus scent when crushed.

Growth Habit: Valencia Orange trees are vigorous and can grow 15-20 feet tall, though they can be pruned to maintain a more compact size. They are highly productive and often yield an abundant harvest from late spring through summer, making them one of the few oranges that produce in the warmer months.