Citrus aurantium L.

ORIGIN DATA:

This important variety of sour orange is probably the result of a mutation selected in France. It is characterized by the quality of its essential oils and the morphology of its leaves. It was widely used in the perfume industry in the 17th century. It is cultivated on the French Riviera, as well as in Algeria and Tunisia, solely for its flowers, which give a superior quality to the Neroli oil.

TREE AND FRUIT DESCRIPTION:

Small trees, with dense foliage due to short internodes. Dark green leaves, shiny and rounded, small and curly. Very aromatic flowers, arranged in clusters, hence its name. Fruits of small-medium size, flattened. Rind of medium thickness and dark orange color, quite smooth when ripe and strongly attached to the pulp. Orange flesh, very juicy, with few seeds and very sour.

USES:

Perfume confection. The rind can be used to make liqueurs such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau. The tree has great ornamental value.