Sour orange/Seville orange tree

Sorry, we cannot ship citrus to some states due to USDA restrictions. See Shipping tab for more information.

Citrus aurantium 

Sour orange trees are a staple in Mediterranean garden design. These trees are characterized by their glossy leaves, small orange fruit and classic citrus smelling blossoms. The fruit while bitter, is still used in many culinary recipes and the rind is used for brewing and food and drink accoutrements. The Sour Orange creates a beautiful privacy hedge when planted closer together.

We offer 2 sizes in Citrus auranthium, potted plants, ready to ship:
1 Gallon: 10" - 14" tall
5 Gallon: 20" - 24" tall

Exposure Full sun

Grows To 8’-12’ Tall and 5' wide

Hardiness Zone 9-11. 

CITRUS NOTICE

Due to USDA Agricultural Laws, we cannot ship citrus to Hawaii, California, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, or Texas.

PLANT VARIATIONS

Please note that no two plants are exactly the same, that’s what makes them so unique! There may be some slight variations in height, width, amount of leaves, etc. We do our best to ensure your plants are consistent and keep our listings updated. As these are live plants, they change frequently. 

SPECIAL REQUESTS

We have the ability to procure hundreds of varieties of plants from 2 inches to 5 gallons. If you do not see what you are looking for, please send us a message and we will see how we can assist you! Contact us

DOMESTIC USA SHIPPING

Our horticulture experts will determine if the plant needs to be shipped in soil, based on the particular species, size, and your hardiness zone. In general, agaves, cacti, and succulents will be shipped without soil, called “bare root.” (see below) We will find the best freight carrier to your address. While our top priority is a healthy, happy plant delivery, unfortunately, we have no control over how carriers handle our packages, nor where they are dropped off.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

All plants shipped beyond the USA mainland, including Alaska and Puerto Rico, will be shipped “bare root.” (see below) All plants shipped internationally, including Puerto Rico, require a Phytosanitary Certificate from the US Department of Agriculture.

Add the Phytosanitary certificate to your cart

Please check with your local customs department to see if you need any additional certifications, such as import permits. Note: while we have extensive experience and a track record of successful international plant shipments, we are unable to guarantee the plants' condition upon arrival.

BARE ROOT SHIPPING

This process simplifies shipping by dramatically decreasing the package weight, which keeps the cost of shipping as low as possible.

CULTURE AT A GLANCE

Citrus trees are tropical, evergreen, and self-fruitful trees. Must be grown as indoor/outdoor trees in cold climates.

Our citrus trees are grafted onto dwarfing rootstocks, which make them suitable for container culture.

They require well-drained, organically rich soil in full sun or bright indoor light.

Monitor trees for common soft bodied pests like aphids, mites, mealy bugs or whiteflies. Treat with Safer® brand Insecticidal soap if found.

Water consistently during active growth cycles and up-pot approx. every 1-2 years until mature.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Please follow these instructions carefully for best results.

• Remove tree from box, remove any wrapping from around the pot, stand it upright, water if soil is dry.
• Place your new citrus tree in a spot with indirect but bright light.
• After 1-2 weeks of environmental transition, provide the tree with full sun.

Some leaves yellowing and dropping should be expected as the tree transitions to the environment of your home. In cold climates, some leaf drop is expected when trees transition back indoors at the end of the summer season.

• After about a week transition period, up-pot your new tree into a larger, permanent container.
• Choose a pot that is 12-15 inches wide and deep, with good drainage holes. Avoid too large of a pot. A terra-cotta clay pot is ideal due to its breathability, but other types of pots can be used.
• Use new, pre-moistened citrus potting mix, otherwise use regular potting soil in the pot. Do Not add rocks or other debris
  at the bottom. Fill the pot entirely with potting mix.
• Remove the tree from its nursery pot, gently loosen the roots, set into pot and gently backfill & firm with soil.
• Water it thoroughly outside or in the sink to allow the water to drain.
• Once potted, place your citrus tree in the ideal location for your current climate, either indoors or out.
• Citrus trees should be kept in a warm, frost-free, wind-free location with at least 6 hrs. of direct sunlight.

For citrus trees kept indoors during the winter, a south-facing window is ideal sunlight. If the light exposure is less than adequate, consider using grow lights while the tree is indoors.

• As with other fruit trees, pinching off any flowers or fruits that set for the first year or two allows the tree to put all its energy into root and foliage growth which benefits establishment.
• First harvestable fruits on lemon or lime trees occur typically 3-4 yrs. from planting. In rare cases, sometimes sooner.
• ‘Meyer’ lemon & ‘Bearss’ lime fruits take approx. 6 months to fully ripen. Be patient once fruits are produced.
• Healthy growing citrus trees can be re-potted every couple years, into a container approx. 4-6 inches larger.

WATERING

Thorough watering is important for containerized citrus trees.

Each watering should allow water to saturate and run through the entire rootball. Avoid frequent, light waterings, which lead to a buildup of salts or unwanted minerals on the roots that cause leaf burning or other harmful effects. Ideally, watering should be done in the sink or outdoors as the weather permits. While indoors, place a large saucer under the pot, which will allow water to drain but still help protect surfaces.

FERTILIZING

Fertilize potted citrus trees during active growing periods from spring to mid-summer.

Apply granulated, slow-release all-purpose (10-10-10) once in early Spring. OR apply water-soluble fertilizer such as ALGOPlus (6-6-6) or Neptune’s Harvest Fish & Seaweed food (2-3-1) once every two weeks from April to July, then stop.