Blood Orange — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Citrus sinensis |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1095–2190 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 365.8–609.6 |
| Mature height (cm) | 304.8–609.6 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 304.8–548.6 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Blood orange cultivars (Moro, Tarocco, Sanguinello) develop their signature ruby-red flesh and juice through the accumulation of anthocyanins, a pigment triggered by cool nights during fruit development — temperatures between 40 and 50°F for several weeks from late autumn through midwinter produce the deepest coloring. In frost-free tropical climates the flesh remains orange with little anthocyanin. Trees are self-fertile, medium-sized, and managed identically to other sweet oranges: plant in well-drained soil, fertilize with a citrus blend three times per year, and irrigate deeply but infrequently. Harvest from late winter through early spring when the flesh has developed full color and the fruit is sweet.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0