Citrus Tree Identification

Grapefruit

Citrus trees produce citrus fruit such as oranges and lemons. Citrus fruits have a rind that surrounds a juicy, pulpy flesh. Citrus trees can be identified by their distinctive characteristics.

Fruit Color

Citrus fruits come in different colors. Oranges and mandarins are orange in color. Lemons and grapefruits are yellow; however, the flesh of the grapefruit could also be white, pink or red. Limes are green.

Fruit Size

Mandarins are smaller than oranges and lemons are much smaller than grapefruits, which are the largest citrus fruit.

Tree Size

Orange, lemon and grapefruit trees can grow up to 30 feet tall. Mandarin trees are generally smaller and top out at 25 feet. Lime trees are more like a shrub and only reach 13 feet tall.

Leaves

Grapefruit and orange leaves are 3 to 5 inches long, green and pointed with a round base. Mandarin leaves are similar except they can be broad or slender. Lemon and lime leaves are elliptical with teeth on the edges, and are dark green on top with light green underneath.

Flowers

Citrus tree flowers generally are white. Lemon and lime flowers have purplish undersides as well.

References

• Citrus Tree Care: Types of Citrus
• USDA Plants Database: Citrus