Description
Moro is a classic Sicilian blood orange selected for strong pigmentation and pronounced flavor. It is valued for developing deep red flesh under cool winter conditions and for its more acidic, complex profile compared to sweeter blood orange types.
Among traditional blood oranges, Moro is often recognized for its ability to produce darker internal color when night temperatures drop during ripening. While color intensity varies by climate and season, Moro consistently delivers the bright, aromatic flavor that defines blood oranges at their boldest.
The fruit ripens in mid-winter and holds well on the tree, allowing both color and flavor to deepen together. Moro remains one of the reference cultivars for blood orange performance worldwide, prized for authenticity rather than restraint.
Overview
- Classic Sicilian blood orange with strong anthocyanin expression.
- Bold, complex flavor with higher acidity than Tarocco types.
- Often develops deep red flesh when winter nights are cool.
- Mid-winter ripening season.
- Self-fertile.
Growing Details
Botanical Name: Citrus sinensis ’Moro’
Origin: Traditional Sicilian blood orange cultivar
Site and Soil: Full sun; well-drained soil
Rootstock: 1-gallon trees on Flying Dragon; larger sizes on C-35
Hardiness: Best suited to USDA Zones 8–11; fruit damage often begins around ~26°F, with increased risk to the tree during prolonged cold below this range
Bearing Age: Often fruits immediately; grafted trees may produce in their first season
Size at Maturity:
• Flying Dragon: Compact, container-friendly habit
• C-35: Compact to medium-sized citrus tree
Note: Final size is influenced by pruning and container culture.
Bloom Time: Spring (timing varies by climate)
Ripening Time: Mid-winter; typically January to February depending on region
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Pests & Diseases: Similar to other sweet oranges; good airflow and drainage help reduce issues
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Moro is best grown where winter nights are cool enough to support anthocyanin development. In the right conditions, it produces some of the darkest-colored blood oranges available.
- Regional Insight: Cooler winter regions improve internal coloration, though flavor remains strong even in warmer citrus climates.
- Explore more orange varieties in our collection: Orange Trees
