Citrus
Originating in southeastern Asia, Citrus crops are among the oldest crops to be domesticated by humans. Now widely grown in tropical and subtropical areas around the world, multiple different citrus varieties are enjoyed by consumers. Citrus crops belong to a genus of plants belonging to the rue family (Rutaceae). Citrus plants yield pulpy fruits covered with thick skins and are typically evergreen trees or shrubs with glossy oval-shaped leaves. At various stages in their lifecycle, many species have thorns. Growers combine years of experience with new technology to utilize new citrus crop solutions to provide a nutritious and widely enjoyed crop.
The grapefruit first appeared in the 18th century, as a result of crossing pomelo and orange plants. It was deemed a “grapefruit” due to its clustered growing habit, which is similar to grapes. Like many citrus varieties, grapefruit plants prefer warm conditions, such as those found in subtropical or tropical regions. Grapefruit trees thrive in well-draining, loamy soil.
Easily recognizable by their acidic and sour taste, lemons and limes are most successfully grown in warm, tropical, or semi-tropical areas. Nutritionally, lemons and limes are nearly identical. Limes tend to be more bitter and acidic while lemons have sweeter acidic flavor notes.
Botanically, mandarins refer to three classifications of oranges: satsumas, tangerines, and miscellaneous hybrids. Thought to be named as a result of being transported through the port of Tangier in Morocco, Tangerines are believed to be native to Southeast Asia. These varieties are typically grown in warm weather climates around the world, though tangerines are more tolerant to cold temperatures than other varieties of citrus.
Orange plants are part of the genus Citrus, which contains all citrus trees—oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, hybrids—that are interfertile. Growing typically in tropical and subtropical regions, countries such as Brazil and the United States are some of the top producers. There are four distinct groups of sweet oranges including round oranges (most economically significant), navel oranges, blood oranges, and acid-less oranges. Within the United States, Florida is the top producing juicing state for oranges while California is the top producer for fresh consumption.