21+ Types Of Oranges You Might Have Heard About

Navel oranges are named after the small, navel-like formation at the blossom end, which resembles a human belly button. This unique feature has made them easily distinguishable from other orange varieties. These are also known as "winter oranges" because they are harvested between November to April.

The oranges have a bright, vibrant orange color and smooth, slightly pebbled skin. They have a sweet and tangy flavor, with a hint of acidity that adds to their taste. One of the key characteristics of navel oranges is that they are seedless. The absence of seeds eliminates the hassle of removing them while enjoying the fruit. Additionally, their high juice content makes them a popular choice for making fresh orange juice.

Valencia oranges are a popular variety of this fruit that originated in Valencia, Spain. They are known for their bright orange color, juicy flesh, and sweet-tart flavor. These oranges are considered one of the best varieties for eating fresh, juicing, and cooking.

They are medium to large in size, with smooth and slightly pebbled skin that is easy to peel. The flesh is juicy and divided into segments. The flavor of Valencia oranges is a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Valencia oranges are typically in season from late spring to early summer, although they are available year around in many grocery stores.

Blood orange is identified by its deep crimson or blood-like flesh. The deep red or maroon color of their flesh is caused by the presence of anthocyanins, which are natural pigments that develop when the fruit is exposed to low temperatures. It is a variety of orange that has a distinct flavor profile with hints of raspberry or strawberry.

Originally believed to have cultivated in the Mediterranean region, blood oranges are now produced in various parts of the world, including Spain, Italy, and the United States. They are typically in season from winter to early spring, making them a popular fruit during colder months.

Despite the name, Mandarin oranges are not really oranges. These are separate but close varieties of citrus fruits to the orange family. These have somewhat of a flattened appearance with easy-to-peel skin and bright skin. They are practically seedless, which makes them a great option for baking and cooking.

Mandarin oranges have cultural significance in many Asian countries, especially during the Lunar New Year. They are often given as gifts and symbolize good luck and prosperity. In Chinese tradition, Mandarin oranges are believed to bring abundance and wealth.

Satsuma oranges, also known as satsumas, are oranges from Japan. Like Mandarin oranges, these are also small, seedless, with loose, easily peelable skin. The flesh inside is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

They are harvested in the winter months and are considered seasonal fruits. These are often added to holiday fruit baskets and festive recipes due to this very reason.

Clementine oranges are named after Father Clément Rodier, who discovered this hybrid fruit in an Algerian orphanage garden in the early 20th century. These are also called 'cuties' or 'sweeties' because of their small and bright appearance.

These have loose skin, minimal pith and juicy flesh, all of which make them a great snack option. The peak season for Clementines is November through January, but they can be found canned throughout the year.

Tangerines are a close cousin to clementines and also bear some resemblance to mandarins. What distinguishes them is their slightly pebbled skin. The oranges are smaller in size compared to other citrus fruits but they pack a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.

Unlike other oranges on this list, tangerines are not seedless. Inside the skin, they have tender, segmented flesh with a fresh aroma. Since they are in season between November to May, there is plenty of time for you to get some Tangerines for yourself this spring.

These sour and bitter oranges are not everyone's favorite. However, don't turn your back on them just yet. These are a great option for marmalades as the flavor can stand on its own with the addition of sugar. Originated in the Mediterranean region, these are minimally sweet but have a flavorful peel.

The Seville orange tree is a small evergreen that produces beautiful white blossoms, filling the air with a sweet and fragrant aroma. The fruit itself is not typically eaten fresh due to its intense bitterness, but it is widely used in culinary applications and traditional medicine.

Cara Cara oranges are a mix of Navel oranges and blood oranges. These have a unique deep red flesh with practically no seeds. They are low on acidity but have a ton of sweetness, which makes them a popular choice for snacks. Originally discovered in Venezuela, these oranges have gained popularity for their vibrant color, sweet taste, and nutritional benefits.

Their taste is often described as 'berry-like' as they have hints of cherries and raspberries. You can find them between December and April.

Moro orange is a variety of blood orange, which is one of the three most popular blood orange varieties in the United States. They are originally from Sicily, Italy. Their flesh is the classic deep red color due to the anthocyanins. The vibrant color of the orange also adds a visually appealing touch to various culinary creations, such as salads, desserts, and cocktails.

Due to its limited growing season, these oranges are considered a seasonal delicacy, typically available from December to March. Their scarcity and unique flavor make them highly sought after by gourmet chefs.

Temple oranges are a popular citrus fruit that originated in Florida, United States. They are a hybrid variety resulting from a cross between a tangerine and a sweet orange. This unique combination gives these oranges their distinct flavor and characteristics.

Temple oranges are known for their vibrant, deep orange color and smooth, glossy skin. They have a slightly elongated shape, similar to a tangerine, and are typically medium-sized. They are often described as having a delightful balance between tartness and sweetness.

Calamondin Orange is a hybrid of a mandarin orange and a kumquat. It is a small citrus fruit native to the Philippines, widely cultivated and enjoyed for its culinary and ornamental purposes.

The fruit has a thin, vibrant orange skin that is easily peeled, revealing juicy, acidic flesh that is both sweet and sour in taste. Its flavor profile is often described as a combination of lime, lemon, and tangerine. It is mostly used in desserts and beverages.

In Persian cuisine, the Persian Orange is a popular ingredient used in both sweet and savory dishes. Its juice is often used as a base for refreshing beverages, while the zest is added to desserts and pastries. The fruit's unique flavor profile also complements various meats and seafood. 

It originates from Iran and is sought after for its sweet and tangy flavor and aromatic scent. It is smaller in size compared to other citrus fruits, with a smooth, thin peel.

Bergamot orange is technically not an orange. It is a crossbreed between a bitter orange and a lemon or lime. It is primarily grown in the coastal regions of southern Italy, particularly in Calabria, for its flavor profile.

Besides, the essential oil extracted from the peel is highly valued in the perfume industry for its refreshing and uplifting scent. It is commonly used as a top note in many perfumes, colognes, and even aromatherapy products due to its mood-enhancing properties. The flesh is used in many Italian desserts.

It is a small citrus fruit that originates from the Kishu region of Japan. It is considered one of the finest and most sought-after citrus fruits in Japan, created as a hybrid variety of mandarin. The orange is distinguished by its petite size, typically measuring about two inches in diameter and powerful size.

These are typically harvested in the winter months, from November to January, when they are at their peak ripeness. The region's mild climate, fertile soil, and abundant sunshine contribute to the fruit's exceptional quality and taste.

These, again are only related to oranges. They are Native to China but are becoming increasingly popular in the Mediterranean region, the United States, and Southeast Asia. Often described as "little golden gems", these are small in size, about the size of a large olive, and are oval or round in shape.

Unlike other oranges, you don't peel these oranges. In fact, the peel is often the sweetest part. You can have them on their own as a snack to add them to salads or other savory dishes.

Yuzu orange is a unique and exotic citrus fruit that originates from East Asia, specifically Japan, China, and Korea. It is a small, round fruit that resembles a tangerine but is distinguished by its distinct flavor and aroma.

The yuzu orange is known for its intense and tangy flavor, which is a delightful blend of lemon, mandarin, and grapefruit. Its zest and juice are often used in culinary applications. The aromatic oils found in the yuzu peel are highly prized and used in perfumes, soaps, and other beauty products.

Minneola orange is yet another hybrid developed by crossing a tangerine with a grapefruit. It was first released in the United States in the early 1930s and has since gained popularity for its unique taste and appearance.

The shape of this orange is of a bell, with a slightly elongated neck at the stem end. The fruit is medium to large in size and is typically seedless or contains few seeds.

Even though often classified as orange, these citrus fruits are rather complex fruits. It is a hybrid variety created by crossing a sweet orange with a grapefruit that combines the best characteristics of both parents. These are larger than traditional oranges but have a smooth and thick rind that is easy to peel.

The flesh is juicy and tender with a rich, honey-like sweetness. The flavor is balanced, with just the right amount of acidity to provide a refreshing tang. The juice of the Ambersweet Orange is highly aromatic and is often used in cocktails, smoothies, and sauces.

Hamlin orange is primarily grown in the United States, particularly in Florida, and is named after a small town called Hamlin in Orange County, Florida. Their popularity has somewhat decreased due to the introduction of new hybrid varieties, but they can still be found in and around the state.

The size of these oranges in often small, with thin skin. The flesh is juicy, often with no seeds. The flavor profile of Hamlin oranges is sweet and tangy, with a refreshing citrus taste that is not too acidic. These oranges are typically harvested from November to January, making them a winter favorite.

If most oranges are too acidic for you, the lima variety might just be the perfect fit. These are extremely sweet, with almost no notes of citrus. If you have a sensitive gut or acid reflux, opting for these oranges is a healthier choice.

Lima oranges originated in Southeast Asia. They are small and round with bright green skin that turns yellow when fully ripe. The orange plant thrives in warm and humid climates with appropriate rainfall.

Jaffa orange, also known as Shamouti orange, originated in the city of Jaffa, located in modern-day Israel. The fruits are characterized by their thick and bumpy skin. These have fairly juicy flesh and some seeds.

The history of Jaffa oranges dates back to the late 19th century when they gained worldwide recognition as a premium citrus fruit. The fertile soil and Mediterranean climate of Jaffa provided the perfect conditions for growing these oranges, resulting in their exceptional taste and quality.

Technically, Tangelo is a hybrid between a tangerine and a pomelo. The name "tangelo" is derived from the combination of "tangerine" and "pomelo," representing its parentage.

The distinguishing characteristic of this fruit is the notable nipple. The skin is bumpy, tight and difficult to peel. However, the flesh is sweet and juicy. There is a balance between the sweetness of a tangerine and the mild tartness of a pomelo. Even though they might be difficult to eat raw, they will make a killer glass of juice.