Citrus sinensis 'Delfino'

Delfino Blood Orange (Citrus sinensis 'Delfino') is prized for its abundant crops of delicious, richly colored fruit. The nearly spherical, medium-sized oranges feature striking red flesh and a sweet yet pleasantly tart flavor, making them excellent for fresh eating and juicing. Their vibrant colour adds visual appeal to fruit salads and cocktails, and they can also be used in baked goods and marmalades. Although slightly smaller than Citrus sinensis ‘Tarocco #7’, Delfino Blood Orange tree produces heavier yields. ‘Delfino’ is exceptionally high in anthocyanins - powerful antioxidants - as well as vitamin C when compared to other oranges.

Delfino Blood Orange is grafted on Flying Dragon rootstock which keeps the plant below 6 feet in height and induces early fruit production. Grow this Blood Orange plant in a container where it will form a compact and attractive, shrub-like specimen with glossy green foliage. Position the plant where you can enjoy its fragrant white flowers, which usually bloom from April to June, and where harvesting is convenient.

This red orange tree prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Blood oranges require hot days and cooler nights to develop their rich colour and sweetness - conditions our late summer and early autumn can provide. Delfino Blood Orange is hardy to zone 9a (-6.5 °) and must be moved indoors before the first frost and overwintered in a bright, sunny spot. Enjoy a taste of the tropics in your home all winter long!

Delfino Blood Orange is self-fertile, though hand-pollination with a small brush can help improve fruit set if flowers appear during winter months. Red Citrus fruit production typically begins within 1–2 years, with harvests beginning in autumn.

Most plant experts agree that blood oranges originated as a natural mutation involving a hybrid mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata) and a hybrid pomelo (Citrus maxima).