Navalina Orange Tree (Navel)

Navalina Orange trees are a variety of sweet orange that is a hybrid of the Washington Navel orange and the Valencia orange. They are a popular choice for home growers due to their early ripening, high yield, and sweet, juicy fruit. They are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Navalina oranges are ready to harvest in early winter. When ripe the oval fruit is a deep orange colour and has a slight give when squeezed. The rind is thin and smooth, and the seedless flesh is juicy, with a sweet slightly tangy flavour. Navalina oranges can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in a variety of recipes.

Navalina orange trees are relatively easy to grow in New Zealand. They are cold hardy, but they prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. They should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Prune your Navalina tree in late winter to maintain its shape and encourage air circulation.