What is Citrus Anyway?

What do you think about when you hear the word citrus? Do you think of the scent of your air freshener? Perhaps the fragrance of your new fancy shampoo, conditioner and cosmetic lotion set? Or maybe you think of the family of fruit, Rutaceae, which includes everything from lemons and limes to oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, mandarins and the hundreds of variations and cross breeds of these in between.

The word citrus originates from the plant named Citron but has been applied to the genus of the plant as well in scientific classifications. This all encompassing name has become so common in everyday usage that it is rare to find someone that can not name at least one citrus fruit or product that totes its famous scents.

The scent of citrus is famous for its tangy and tart odor that invigorates and awakens the mind body and soul. The essential oils of the fruits are extracted and have a reasonably long shelf life due to the citric acid content- making them great for the bases of perfumes. This extraction comes from the plants themselves- much of which comes from the rinds or the skin of the fruit.

Citrus fruit grow on shrubs and short but strong trees that bear not only the beautiful and delicious fruit, but also attractive flowers (most famously the four petal white flower). These plants are wonderful adds to gardens as they fill the yard with strong aromas that cleanse and stimulate, and of course they also add a wealth of snacks packed with vitamin C and flavonoids. Many people will create their own juices, marmalades, cakes, pies and exotic dishes with the many fruits found in the citrus family as well.
Much of commercial citrus production today is done through the scientific grafting process in order to ensure the fruits do not cross breed during the pollination process. Unlike many other fruits, citrus fruits will not only mature while connected to its life source the tree, it will continue through maturity and then over ripen or over mature on the tree without releasing from the branches. Once the fruit is removed from the plant, it will not continue to ripen unlike many other fruits either. The skin of the fruits will only turn yellow if exposed to lower temperatures.

Citrus fruits as a general whole grow best in tropical and sub tropical climates where there is a constant supply of sun, humidity and fertile soils. This is why you find some of the best citrus fruits come from places like Florida for example.

So citrus is a family of fruits that are not only a delicious and beautifully fragrant, but a great add to your garden and meals.

Taste the Sunshine with Hale Groves

At Hale Groves, we believe the best gifts come from the land, not a factory. For generations, our fruit has been grown slowly under the Florida sun, picked at its peak, and delivered fresh to your door. From sweet Navel Oranges to rare Honeybells, every gift shares the simple joy of real flavor—perfect for holidays, milestones, or everyday moments worth celebrating.

Shop Now