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Citrus aurantium
  • Bitter Orange

a perennial woody evergreen member of the Citrus genus in the family Rutaceae.

248px
Niche
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    The ecosystem niches for this plant are unknown. Do you know them? Click the edit button to add them!
Functions
  • Hedge
    Hedge
    There are no details available for this function.
  • Rootstock
    Rootstock
    There are no details available for this function.
Light
  • Full sun
    Full sun
    The amount of sun exposure that a plant prefers in ideal conditions.
    Key
  • no shade
    No shade
    The amount of shade a plant will tolerate without adverse health affects.
    Key
Water
  • Water Requirementsmoderate
    Moderate
    The amount of water a plant needs for healthy growth, relative to other plants.
    Key
Soil
  • acid,neutral,very alkaline
    Acid to Very alkaline
    The PH range (acidity or alkilinity) of the growth medium ideal for healthy nutrient absorbtion.
    Key
  • Loamy to Clay
    The soil texture this plant prefers for optimal growth.
    Key
Cold & Heat
  • 9
    Zone 9
    The USDA Hardiness scale assigns plants a number from 1 to 12 representing the minimum temperature a plant can survive.
    Key
    0< -53.9ºC< -65ºF
    1-51.1ºC-60ºF
    2-45.6ºC-50F
    3-40ºC-40ºF
    4-34.4ºC-30ºF
    5-28.9ºC-20ºF
    6-23.3ºC-10ºF
    7-17.8ºC0ºF
    8-12.2C10ºF
    9-6.7ºC20ºF
    10-1.1ºC30ºF
    114.4ºC40ºF
    12> 10ºC> 5ºF
  • ?
    Unknown
    The AHS Heat scale assigns plants a number from 1 to 12 representing the number of days per year a plant requires a temperature exceeding 30ºC (86ºF).
    Key
    11
    21 - 7
    38 - 14
    415 - 30
    531 - 45
    646 - 60
    761 - 90
    891 - 120
    9121 - 150
    10151 - 180
    11181 - 210
    12181 - 210
Citrus aurantium has 0 edible uses listed
Citrus aurantium has 0 material uses listed
Citrus aurantium has 0 medicinal uses listed

Uses

Edible uses

Notes

Fruit - raw or cooked[1][2]. Very bitter[3]. It is used in making marmalade and other preserves[2][3][4][5]. The fruit is about 5 - 7cm in diameter[6].

The rind of the fruit is often used as a flavouring in cakes etc[1][7]. Used in 'bouquet garni'[5]. An oil obtained from the seeds contains linolenic acid and is becoming more widely used as a food because of its ability to reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood[8]. The flowers are used for scenting tea[5].

An essential oil from the dried peel of immature fruits is used as a food flavouring[5].

Unknown part

Condiment
Oil

Fruit

Unknown use

Material uses

This species is much used as a rootstock for the sweet orange, C. sinensis, because of its disease resistance and greater hardiness[2][3][4].

Grown as a hedging plant in N. America[9]. A semi-drying oil obtained from the seed is used in soap making[3][4]. Essential oils obtained from the peel, petals and leaves are used as a food flavouring and also in perfumery and medicines[1][7][3][4][10]. The oil from the flowers is called 'Neroli oil' - yields are very low from this species and so it is often adulterated with inferior oils[8]. The oil from the leaves and young shoots is called 'petit-grain' - 400 kilos of plant material yield about 1 kilo of oil[8]. This is also often adulterated with inferior products[8].

Neroli oil, mixed with vaseline, is used in India as a preventative against leeches[11].

Unknown part

Essential
Oil
Repellent

Medicinal uses(Warning!)

Citrus species contain a wide range of active ingredients and research is still underway in finding uses for them. They are rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, acids and volatile oils. They also contain coumarins such as bergapten which sensitizes the skin to sunlight. Bergapten is sometimes added to tanning preparations since it promotes pigmentation in the skin, though it can cause dermatitis or allergic responses in some people[12]. Some of the plants more recent applications are as sources of anti-oxidants and chemical exfoliants in specialized cosmetics[12]. The plants also contain umbelliferone, which is antifungal, as well as essential oils that are antifungal and antibacterial[13]. They also contain the pyrone citrantin, which shows antifertility activity and was once used as a component of contraceptives[13].

Both the leaves and the flowers are antispasmodic, digestive and sedative[8][14]. An infusion is used in the treatment of stomach problems, sluggish digestion etc[14]. The fruit is antiemetic, antitussive, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive and expectorant[13].The immature fruit can be used (called Zhi Shi in China) or the mature fruit with seeds and endocarp removed (called Zhi Ke). The immature fruit has a stronger action. They are used in the treatment of dyspepsia, constipation, abdominal distension, stuffy sensation in the chest, prolapse of the uterus, rectum and stomach[15]. The fruit peel is bitter, digestive and stomachic[8]. The seed and the pericarp are used in the treatment of anorexia, chest pains, colds, coughs etc[13].

The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is 'Radiance'[16]. It is used in treating depression, tension and skin problems[12].

Unknown part

Antibacterial
Antiemetic
Antifungal
Antispasmodic
Antitussive
Aromatherapy
Carminative
Contraceptive
Diaphoretic
Digestive
Miscellany
Sedative
Stimulant
Stomachic
Tonic

Ecology

Ecosystem niche/layer

Ecological Functions

Hedge


Rootstock

Forage

Nothing listed.

Shelter

Nothing listed.

Propagation

The seed is best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it ripe after thoroughly rinsing it[17][6]. Sow stored seed in March in a greenhouse[2]. 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 polyembrionic, 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[6]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least three growing seasons before trying them outdoors. Plant them out in the summer and give them some protection from the cold for their first few winters outdoors.

Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame.

Layering in October.

Practical Plants is currently lacking information on propagation instructions of Citrus aurantium. Help us fill in the blanks! Edit this page to add your knowledge.



Cultivation

Prefers a moderately heavy loam with a generous amount of compost and sand added and a very sunny position[1][6]. Prefers a pH between 5 and 6[6]. Tolerates a pH in the range 4.8 to 8.3. Plants are intolerant of water logging[6]. When growing plants in pots, a compost comprising equal quantities of loam and leafmould plus a little charcoal should produce good results[9]. Do not use manure since Citrus species dislike it[9]. When watering pot plants it is important to neither overwater or underwater since the plant will soon complain by turning yellow and dying. Water only when the compost is almost dry, but do not allow it to become completely dry[9].

Dormant plants can withstand temperatures down to about -6°c so long as this is preceded by cool weather in order to harden off the plant[6]. The young growth in spring, even on mature plants, is frost-tender and so it is best to grow the plants in a position sheltered from the early morning sun[K]. A tree grown outdoors on the coast at Salcombe in Devon lived for over 200 years[18]. The bitter orange is often grown for its edible fruit in warm temperate and tropical zones, there are many named varieties[5]. In Britain it can be grown in a pot that is placed outdoors in the summer and brought into a greenhouse during the winter[2][6].

Plants dislike root disturbance and so should be placed into their permanent positions when young. If growing them in pots, great care must be exercised when potting them on into larger containers[12].

Crops

Problems, pests & diseases

Associations & Interactions

There are no interactions listed for Citrus aurantium. Do you know of an interaction that should be listed here? edit this page to add it.

Polycultures & Guilds

There are no polycultures listed which include Citrus aurantium.

Descendants

Cultivars

Varieties

None listed.

Subspecies

None listed.

Full Data

This table shows all the data stored for this plant.

Taxonomy
Binomial name
Citrus aurantium
Genus
Citrus
Family
Rutaceae
Imported References
Edible uses
[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8]
Medicinal uses
[12][13][8][14][15][16]
Material uses & Functions
[2][3][4][9][1][7][10][8][11]
Botanic
[6]
Propagation
Cultivation
Environment
Cultivation
Uses
Edible uses
None listed.
Material uses
None listed.
Medicinal uses
None listed.
Functions & Nature
Functions
Hedge, Rootstock
Provides forage for
Provides shelter for
Environment
Hardiness Zone
9
Heat Zone
?
Water
moderate
Sun
full sun
Shade
no shade
Soil PH
acid, neutral, very alkaline
Soil Texture
loamy, clay
Soil Water Retention
well drained
Environmental Tolerances
    Ecosystems
    Native Climate Zones
    None listed.
    Adapted Climate Zones
    None listed.
    Native Geographical Range
    None listed.
    Native Environment
    None listed.
    Ecosystem Niche
    None listed.
    Root Zone Tendancy
    None listed.
    Life
    Deciduous or Evergreen
    evergreen
    Herbaceous or Woody
    woody
    Life Cycle
    perennial
    Growth Rate
    ?
    Mature Size
    9 x 6 meters
    Fertility
    self fertile
    Pollinators
    Apomictic, Insects
    Flower Colour
    ?
    Flower Type
    hermaphrodite

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    "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki. "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki.


    "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki.

    "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki.

    "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki., "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki., "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki. "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki., "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki. "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki. "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki.






    References

    1. ? 1.01.11.21.31.41.5 F. Chittendon. RHS Dictionary of Plants plus Supplement. 1956 Oxford University Press (1951-00-00)
    2. ? 2.02.12.22.32.42.52.6 Simmons. A. E. Growing Unusual Fruit. David and Charles ISBN 0-7153-5531-7 (1972-00-00)
    3. ? 3.03.13.23.33.43.53.6 Uphof. J. C. Th. Dictionary of Economic Plants. Weinheim (1959-00-00)
    4. ? 4.04.14.24.34.44.5 Usher. G. A Dictionary of Plants Used by Man. Constable ISBN 0094579202 (1974-00-00)
    5. ? 5.05.15.25.35.45.5 Facciola. S. Cornucopia - A Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong Publications ISBN 0-9628087-0-9 (1990-00-00)
    6. ? 6.06.16.26.36.46.56.66.76.86.9 Huxley. A. The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. 1992. MacMillan Press ISBN 0-333-47494-5 (1992-00-00)
    7. ? 7.07.17.27.3 Grieve. A Modern Herbal. Penguin ISBN 0-14-046-440-9 (1984-00-00)
    8. ? 8.08.18.28.38.48.58.68.78.8 Chiej. R. Encyclopaedia of Medicinal Plants. MacDonald ISBN 0-356-10541-5 (1984-00-00)
    9. ? 9.09.19.29.39.4 Phillips. R. & Rix. M. Conservatory and Indoor Plants Volumes 1 & 2 Pan Books, London. ISBN 0-330-37376-5 (1998-00-00)
    10. ? 10.010.1 Hill. A. F. Economic Botany. The Maple Press (1952-00-00)
    11. ? 11.011.1 Stuart. M. (Editor) The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Herbalism Orbis Publishing. London. ISBN 0-85613-067-2 (1979-00-00)
    12. ? 12.012.112.212.312.4 Bown. D. Encyclopaedia of Herbs and their Uses. Dorling Kindersley, London. ISBN 0-7513-020-31 (1995-00-00)
    13. ? 13.013.113.213.313.4 Duke. J. A. and Ayensu. E. S. Medicinal Plants of China Reference Publications, Inc. ISBN 0-917256-20-4 (1985-00-00)
    14. ? 14.014.114.2 Launert. E. Edible and Medicinal Plants. Hamlyn ISBN 0-600-37216-2 (1981-00-00)
    15. ? 15.015.1 Yeung. Him-Che. Handbook of Chinese Herbs and Formulas. Institute of Chinese Medicine, Los Angeles (1985-00-00)
    16. ? 16.016.1 Westwood. C. Aromatherapy - A guide for home use. Amberwood Publishing Ltd ISBN 0-9517723-0-9 (1993-00-00)
    17. ? Bird. R. (Editor) Growing from Seed. Volume 4. Thompson and Morgan. (1990-00-00)
    18. ? Taylor. J. The Milder Garden. Dent (1990-00-00)

    "image:Citrus aurantium - Köhler?s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg|248px" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki.

    Retrieved from "http://practicalplants.org/w/index.php?title=Citrus_aurantium&oldid=76286"
    Facts about "Citrus aurantium"RDF feed
    Article is incompleteYes +
    Article requires citationsNo +
    Article requires cleanupYes +
    Belongs to familyRutaceae +
    Belongs to genusCitrus +
    Functions asHedge + and Rootstock +
    Has common nameBitter Orange +
    Has drought toleranceIntolerant +
    Has edible partUnknown part + and Fruit +
    Has edible useSeasoning +, Unknown use + and Oil +
    Has fertility typeSelf fertile +, Apomictic + and Insects +
    Has flowers of typeHermaphrodite +
    Has hardiness zone9 +
    Has imageCitrus aurantium - Köhler–s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg +
    Has lifecycle typePerennial +
    Has material partUnknown part +
    Has material useEssential +, Oil + and Repellent +
    Has mature height9 +
    Has mature width6 +
    Has medicinal partUnknown part +
    Has medicinal useAntibacterial +, Antiemetic +, Antifungal +, Antispasmodic +, Antitussive +, Aromatherapy +, Carminative +, Contraceptive +, Diaphoretic +, Digestive +, Miscellany +, Sedative +, Stimulant +, Stomachic + and Tonic +
    Has primary imageCitrus aurantium - Köhler–s Medizinal-Pflanzen-042.jpg +
    Has search namecitrus aurantium + and x +
    Has shade toleranceNo shade +
    Has soil ph preferenceAcid +, Neutral + and Very alkaline +
    Has soil teclayture preferenceClay +
    Has soil teloamyture preferenceLoamy +
    Has soil water retention preferenceWell drained +
    Has sun preferenceFull sun +
    Has taxonomy nameCitrus aurantium +
    Has water requirementsmoderate +
    Is deciduous or evergreenEvergreen +
    Is herbaceous or woodyWoody +
    Is taxonomy typeSpecies +
    Tolerates nutritionally poor soilNo +
    Uses mature size measurement unitMeters +