Description
The Orange tree Cara Cara is a beautiful and productive citrus tree, prized for its pink-fleshed, seedless fruits and exceptionally sweet flavour. A natural mutation of Washington Navel discovered in Venezuela in the 1970s, it's ideal for container growing or planting outdoors in warm climates.
Geographical origin: South America (Venezuela)
Botanical family: Rutaceae
Notable features: Cara Cara’s pink color comes from lycopene, a natural antioxidant. It's a spontaneous mutation of the Washington Navel.
Mature height: 2 to 3 meters in container, up to 4 meters in the ground
Mature spread: 2 to 3 meters
Habit: Compact, rounded, well-branched
Bark: Smooth, grey to light brown
Foliage: Evergreen, aromatic, glossy dark green
Growth: Slow to moderate
Hardiness: Down to -3°C; must be protected or overwintered in cold climates
Flowering time: Spring, sometimes again in summer
Flowers: Small white blossoms, highly fragrant
Fruits: Medium-sized pink-fleshed oranges, juicy and sweet, seedless. Harvest from November to January. Self-fertile.
Wildlife interest: Bee-friendly, intensely fragrant flowers
Ideal light: Full sun, sheltered from wind
Soil type: Light, rich, slightly acidic to neutral
Soil preparation tips: Use citrus soil mix with compost in pots; improve drainage in heavy soils outdoors
Spacing: At least 2 meters
Soil nature: Loose, rich, non-calcareous
At planting: Keep soil moist, avoid dryness
At maturity: Moderate watering, reduce in winter
When and how: Light pruning after fruiting to maintain shape and airflow
Method: Grafted on Poncirus trifoliata . Sometimes propagated by cuttings.
Best placement: Patio, greenhouse, warm garden spot, terrace Recommended companions: citrus, palm tree, olive tree, pomegranate
Cultural usage: The fruit is valued for its high vitamin C and lycopene content, perfect for juicing and fresh eating. Symbol of Mediterranean gardens.
Vulnerabilities: Scale insects, spider mites, chlorosis in alkaline soils
Natural prevention: Good air flow, oil sprays in winter, acidic soil mix
Development advice: Repot every 2–3 years, feed with citrus fertilizer April to September, overwinter in a bright, frost-free area
Cara Cara stands out with its sweet, pink, seedless fruit, making it a decorative and edible citrus ideal for containers or gardens in mild climates.
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