Blood Orange Maltese - 16.5cm Pot

Blood Orange Maltese.

This is a semi-blood orange, with a flesh that is well-coloured without too much red pigmentation. The sweet, delicate flavour and the juiciness of this almost seedless orange are exquisite, making it a highly prized dessert fruit. It peels very easily and is free from white strings/ fibre that comes on the flesh of a citrus fruit.

Originating in Malta, this orange is hugely popular across the globe and is regarded by many in the citriculture world to the finest quality of any non-navel orange. In France, the Maltese Orange is referred to as the Queen of Oranges. The Maltese Blood Orange was documented as one of the first citrus trees introduced to cultivation in Australia, making a recorded journey on board the First Fleet.

Care

• Plant in a sunny, sheltered location with well-drained soil
• Water regularly during dry periods, especially when fruiting
• Fertilise with a citrus-specific fertiliser in spring and late summer
• Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches
• Protect young trees from frost; established trees tolerate light frosts
• Mulch to retain moisture, keeping mulch away from the trunk