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The myrtle-leaved orange tree

Citrus myrtifolia, the myrtle-leaved orange tree, is a species of Citrus with foliage similar to that of the common myrtle. It is a compact tree with small leaves and no thorns which grows to a height of three metres and can be found in Malta, Libya, the south of France and Italy (primarily in Liguria, typically Savona, and also in Tuscany, Sicily and Calabria).

The fruit of the tree resemble small oranges. It has a bitter flavor and is commonly called by its Italian name, chinotto. It is an essential flavoring agent of most Italian amari, of the popular Campari apéritif, and of several brands of carbonated soft drinks that are generically called "chinotto".

Citrus myrtifolia is sometimes planted in gardens. Due to its compactness, it can also be planted in a pot or other container.

  • Category Citrus
  • Families Rutaceae
  • Genus Citrus
  • Species myrtifolia
  • Geographical Area of Origin Asia, Indian subcontinent
  • Climatic Zones Sub-tropical, USDA 10 b (Southern Italy and islands)
  • Habit Shrub
  • Leaves Evergreen
  • Colore Foglie Verde
  • Flowering Period January / February / September / October / November / December
  • Flower Corymb
  • Colore Fiori Bianco
  • Favorite soil Sub-acid / medium acid / Middle-Dough / Medium soil
  • Water needs Low / little water / Medium
  • Light Exposure Medium shade / Half shade / Full light / Full sun
  • Form Espalier / Tree / Grown as shrub / bush
  • Colore Frutti Arancione
  • Parfumed yes
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