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bergamot orange

Scientific Name: Citrus ×aurantium ssp. bergamia

Family: Rutaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Bergamot Orange (Citrus bergamia)

The Bergamot orange, scientifically known as Citrus bergamia, is a fragrant citrus fruit prized for its unique aroma and flavor. It is commonly used to flavor Earl Grey tea and is also utilized in perfumery.

Considerations for Pets

  • The fruit has a bitter taste.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Citrus bergamia
  • Common Names: Bergamot orange, Orange Bergamot, Lemon Bergamot
  • Belongs to the Rutaceae family.
  • Synonyms: Citrus aurantium ssp. bergamia

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to South Asia.
  • Primarily grown in the Calabria region of southern Italy and along the Mediterranean Sea.

Morphological Characteristics

  • The fruit is the size of an orange, typically yellow in color, similar to a lemon.
  • Semi-ovate shape with a smooth, pebbled exterior.
  • Trees are relatively small, generally reaching a height of no more than 12 feet (3.5 meters).
  • The tree produces clusters of white flowers.
  • The fruit initially appears green, turning yellow upon ripening.

Uses

  • The rind is used to extract essential oil, which is widely used in perfumes and eau de Cologne.
  • The fruit provides the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea.
  • The juice is intensely aromatic and juicy with a slightly bitter, bracingly sour, and floral flavor.
  • Bergamot is used to make marmalade.

Quirky Facts

  • The Bergamot orange is thought to be a hybrid of sour orange and citron.
  • It is sometimes humorously described as what might happen if "a lemon fucked a lime while an orange" watched.