Read by Michael Flamel

Oranges Everywhere—Or So I Thought!

Growing up in Sacramento, I was surrounded by orange trees. They lined our streets, filled our parks, and, of course, flourished in backyard gardens. As a kid, I simply assumed that everyone had access to fresh oranges all year long. If you wanted a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice, you just walked outside, picked a few, and got to squeezing. It wasn’t a luxury—it was just what you did.

Imagine my surprise when I moved to New England many years ago and discovered that oranges weren’t in every backyard! The first Winter, as I trudged through the snow in search of some vitamin C, I began to appreciate what I had taken for granted. But despite the frigid temperatures and the lack of citrus trees in sight, orange juice was still a breakfast staple in every New England diner, and grocery stores remained stocked with plump, bright oranges.

It made me wonder: If oranges aren’t growing outside in these cold climates, where are they coming from?

A Brief and Juicy History of Oranges

Oranges, one of the world’s most beloved fruits, have a long and winding history. They originated in Southeast Asia, with evidence suggesting that humans were enjoying their tangy sweetness as far back as 2500 BCE. Arab traders carried oranges westward, and by the time of the Roman Empire, oranges had made their way to Europe.

Fast-forward to the Age of Exploration, and Spanish and Portuguese sailors were planting orange groves in the New World. Florida got its first taste of citrus in the 1500s, thanks to Spanish explorers, while California’s orange boom began in the 1800s when settlers realized the Golden State’s climate was perfect for growing the fruit.

Today, oranges are cultivated worldwide, with Brazil, the United States, India, and China leading production. If you’ve ever had a glass of store-bought orange juice, there’s a good chance it came from the sprawling orange groves of Florida or the massive orchards of São Paulo, Brazil.

The Many Faces of the Orange

Oranges aren’t just a one-size-fits-all fruit. There are dozens of varieties grown worldwide, each with its own distinct flavor and personality:

• Navel Oranges – The classic grocery store orange with a built-in belly button! Perfect for eating fresh.
• Valencia Oranges – The MVP of orange juice, these beauties are extra juicy and slightly tangy.
• Blood Oranges – A dramatic twist on citrus, these oranges have a deep red interior and a raspberry-like flavor.
• Cara Cara Oranges – Sweet, pink-fleshed, and packed with a hint of berry flavor.
• Seville Oranges – The go-to for making marmalade, these oranges are delightfully bitter.

If you live in a place too cold for an outdoor orange tree, don’t worry—you can still enjoy the citrus experience. Some people grow dwarf orange trees indoors, while others opt for the kumquat, a tiny, tart cousin of the orange that thrives in containers.

Where Do Oranges Come From (If You Don’t Grow Them)?

Many countries that don’t have the right climate for orange groves rely on imports. Europe gets much of its citrus from Spain and Italy, while Canada depends on shipments from Florida, California, and Mexico. Japan sources oranges from the United States and Australia, while China has begun producing enough to export to smaller markets.

And let’s not forget orange juice! If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of OJ in a place where orange trees don’t grow, it’s likely from Brazil, which produces about half the world’s orange juice supply.

Fun & Zesty Orange Facts!

• The word “orange” comes from the Sanskrit nāraṅga, which means “fragrant.”
• Oranges are technically berries—just like bananas and watermelons!
• Florida grows more oranges than any other U.S. state, but California oranges are often considered the best for eating fresh.
• In Valencia, Spain, oranges are such a big deal that they have an annual festival where people throw them at each other (yes, really!).
• There’s a variety called the “Chocolate Orange”—not actually made of chocolate, but it has a brownish skin and hints of cocoa in its flavor.

Beyond Juice: Cooking with Oranges

Sure, oranges are great for snacking and juicing, but they’re also a secret weapon in the kitchen! Their sweet-tart balance enhances both savory and sweet dishes. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use them:

• Citrus-Glazed Roast Chicken – A sticky, sweet glaze made with orange juice and zest makes for a perfect Sunday roast.
• Orange and Fennel Salad – The fresh, bright acidity of oranges pairs beautifully with the anise flavor of fennel.
• Orange Marmalade – A must-have for toast, scones, and even as a glaze for meats.
• Valencia Orange Cake – A Spanish classic that’s incredibly moist and bursting with citrus flavor.

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If this citrus-filled tale has you dreaming of your own orange tree, don’t worry—it’s not impossible! If you live in a warm climate, an outdoor tree might be in your future. If you’re in a colder area, consider growing a dwarf orange tree indoors or in a greenhouse. And if space is limited, why not try a kumquat? They’re small, tangy, and perfect for snacking!

For all the details on growing your own citrus, be sure to check out our complete guide to growing oranges. Who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll be the one squeezing fresh juice in your backyard!

After all, when life gives you oranges… well, you know what to do! ❖