A blood orange with red-streaked flesh and a sweet berry-tinged flavour, the colour deepening where nights turn cold in winter. Fragrant and ornamental, it rewards a warm-temperate or Mediterranean garden.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 4 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Blood Orange
Botanically, Citrus sinensis 'Arnold Blood' is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rutaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Blood Orange
Blood Orange suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Blood Orange does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Blood Orange does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Blood Orange after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a moderate maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Blood Orange in the garden
Blood Orange earns its place for edible harvests and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Blood Orange with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Blood Orange
Plant Sale lists Blood Orange as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
