The Citrus genus is currently (2012) being revised and there are likely to be some major changes in classification. This species is being treated as a synonym of Citrus aurantium L., in 'The Plant List'[].

Common Name: King Orange

General Information

Citrus nobilis is an evergreen shrub growing about 4 metres tall.
The plant is often cultivated in the tropics for its edible fruit. There are some named varieties[, ].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Only known in cultivation.

Habitat

Not known in a truly wild situation.

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	4.00 m
Cultivation Status	Cultivated

Cultivation Details

Three main climates are suitable for commercial citrus production - tropical climates, subtropical with winter rain such as in the Mediterranean and semitropical with summer rainfall as found in Florida and southern Brazil[]. The optimal temperatures for citrus cultivation range between 25 - 30°c, with the coldest month having an average minimum of at least 15°c[]. Growth generally ceases below 13°c and above 38°c[]. If there are dry periods of more than three months, then irrigation will be necessary[].
Prefers a deep, well-drained but moisture-retentive loamy soil in full sun[]. Prefers a pH in the range 5 - 6[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - usually eaten raw[]. The thin-peeled fruit is 5 - 8cm in diameter[]. Easily peeled[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

The seed is best sown in containers as soon as it is ripe, after thoroughly rinsing it[, ]. Sow stored seed in containers as soon as possible]. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 3 weeks at 13°c. Seedlings are liable to damp off so they must be watered with care and kept well ventilated. The seed is usually polyembryonic, two or more seedlings arise from each seed and they are genetically identical to the parent but they do not usually carry any virus that might be present in the parent plant[]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on until they are 10cm or more tall before planting out into their permanent positions.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. This species grows easily from cuttings[].
Layering in October.

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