10 Surprising Facts about Florida Citrus
10 Fun Facts About Florida Citrus You Didn’t Know
Florida’s citrus industry is a cornerstone of the state’s identity, known for its juicy oranges, zesty limes, and tangy grapefruits. While you might already enjoy these delicious fruits, here are 10 fun facts about Florida citrus that might surprise you:
1. Citrus Trees Are Long-Lived
A healthy citrus tree can live up to 50 years or more, producing fruit for most of its lifespan. With proper care, they’re a gift that keeps on giving!
2. Oranges Aren’t Native to Florida
Oranges were brought to Florida by Spanish explorers in the 1500s. Since then, the state has become one of the world’s leading citrus producers.
3. Florida Produces the Most Orange Juice
Over 90% of Florida’s orange crop is used for juice production, making it the go-to state for your morning OJ.
4. The Official State Flower
The orange blossom, known for its sweet, intoxicating fragrance, is Florida’s state flower and symbolizes the state’s rich agricultural heritage.
5. Citrus Fruits Are Packed with Vitamin C
One medium orange provides about 70 mg of vitamin C, which is more than enough to meet your daily requirement.
6. Citrus by the Numbers
Florida’s citrus industry spans over 400,000 acres and produces millions of boxes of fruit annually.
7. Grapefruit’s Pink Hue Was a Surprise
The first pink grapefruit was discovered by accident in Florida in the 1920s. It was a natural mutation and quickly became a favorite.
8. Citrus Peels Have Multiple Uses
Citrus peels are often used in cleaning products, perfumes, and even livestock feed, showing that no part of the fruit goes to waste.
9. The Citrus Belt
Florida’s “Citrus Belt” runs from the center of the state southward, where the warm climate is ideal for growing fruit.
10. Citrus Festivals Galore
Florida hosts numerous citrus festivals annually, celebrating the state’s most famous crop with food, music, and fun activities.
Want to learn more about Florida citrus? Visit floridaorange.com for insights, recipes, and more.
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