Citrus x sinensis Orange 'Washington Navel'
‘Washington Navel‘ is an early maturing citrus tree that has a bushy and upright growth habit. It features thick, glossy dark green leaves that are oval-shaped, providing a lush backdrop for the fruit. The tree produces large, round oranges with smooth, bright orange skin that has a slightly dimpled texture. The flesh is seedless, juicy, and sweet, making it ideal for fresh eating. In spring it also produces fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters, attracting bees and other pollinators.
Cultural
Harvest fruit when it is fully coloured and slightly soft to the touch. Fruit ripens 6-9 months after flowering. Sensitive to frost when young.
Soil:
Tolerates any well-drained soil
Aspect:
Full sun.
Maintenance:
Lightly prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape. Fertilise in spring and late summer with a citrus-specific fertiliser. Susceptible to citrus scale, leaf miner, and gall wasp- monitor plants closely and apply appropriate treatments if detected.
Water Requirements:
Moderately drought tolerant once established but will benefit from supplementary watering.
Seasonal Interest:
Late spring to summer flowering, late autumn to winter fruiting.
Landscape Uses
Great for growing in containers due to its compact habit. Ideal for courtyards, patios, balconies and decks. Perfect addition to a Mediterranean style garden. Washington Navels do espalier well. Tie back lateral growth to a trellis, and prune growth coming outwards.
Dimensions
Height to 4.5m
Width to 3.0m
Can be kept significantly smaller through pruning.
Width to 3.0m
Can be kept significantly smaller through pruning.