Unusual Varieties of Florida Citrus: Beyond Oranges and Grapefruits

When people think of Florida citrus, sweet oranges and juicy grapefruits usually come to mind—and for good reason. These iconic fruits have long defined the Sunshine State’s agricultural legacy. But Florida’s citrus story doesn’t stop there. Tucked among the groves are lesser-known, unusual citrus varieties that offer bold flavors, unique appearances, and exciting culinary uses. If you’re a citrus lover looking to go beyond the basics, these fruits are worth exploring.

1. Honeybells (Minneola Tangelos)
A Florida favorite, the Honeybell is a cross between a tangerine and a grapefruit. Shaped like a bell with a small knob at the top, Honeybells are prized for their incredibly sweet, juicy flavor and virtually seedless interior. They’re only in season for a few short weeks in January, making them a rare and highly sought-after treat.

2. Temple Oranges
Temple oranges, also known as tangors, are a hybrid between sweet oranges and tangerines. They have a deep orange color, easy-to-peel skin, and a rich, spicy-sweet flavor that stands out from standard oranges. Their juice is fragrant and bold—perfect for cocktails or fresh sipping.

3. Sunburst Tangerines
These small, bright fruits have a thin, shiny skin and a burst of sweet flavor that lives up to their name. Sunburst tangerines are easy to peel, making them a kid-friendly favorite and a great addition to lunchboxes.

4. Pummelos
Often considered the ancestor of the grapefruit, pummelos are large, pale-green or yellow citrus fruits with a thick rind and a mild, less acidic taste. Despite their size, they’re gentle on the palate and perfect for fruit salads or eating fresh.

5. Sour Oranges (Seville Oranges)
While not eaten fresh due to their tart, bitter taste, sour oranges have an important place in Florida culinary traditions. They’re commonly used in marmalades, marinades, and even traditional Cuban mojo sauces.

6. Finger Limes
Though native to Australia, finger limes are beginning to make appearances in niche Florida groves. Sometimes called "citrus caviar," their pulp consists of tiny juice-filled pearls that burst in your mouth—perfect for garnishing seafood, desserts, or cocktails.

7. Calamondins
A cross between a kumquat and a mandarin orange, calamondins are small, sour, and highly aromatic. They’re often used in jams, jellies, and as ornamental trees, with their glossy leaves and bright orange fruit adding visual charm to gardens and patios.

8. Key Limes
Florida is famous for its Key limes—smaller, thinner-skinned, and more aromatic than the standard Persian lime. Known best for their role in the beloved Key lime pie, they add a distinctive tang to drinks, sauces, and baked goods.

These unusual citrus varieties showcase Florida’s diversity in fruit growing and provide a refreshing twist on traditional flavors. Whether you’re curious to try something new or looking for the perfect gourmet gift, these fruits are a delightful way to explore Florida’s citrus heritage.

Discover fresh, hand-picked Florida citrus—including some of these unique varieties—at FloridaOrange.com.

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