Orange blossom

For other uses, see Orange blossom (disambiguation).

Citrus sinensis Osbeck painting by Mary Emily Eaton from a 1917 issue of National Geographic

The Orange Blossom

The orange blossom is the fragrant flower of the Citrus sinensis (orange tree). It is used in perfume making, has been written about as an aphrodisiac and is the state flower of Florida. It is traditionally associated with good fortune and has been popular in bridal bouquets and head wreaths for weddings. Orange blossom essence is an important component in the making of perfume. The petals of orange blossom can also be made into the delicately scented orange flower water (as an alternative to rose water), a common part of both French cuisine and Middle Eastern cuisine (most often as an ingredient in desserts and baked goods).

In the United States, orange flower water is used to make orange blossom scones and marshmallows.

Orange blossom honey (citrus honey) is produced by putting beehives in the citrus groves during blooming period. This also pollinates seeded citrus varieties. Orange blossom honey is highly prized and tastes much like the fruit.

The orange blossom gives its touristic nickname to the Costa del Azahar ("orange-blossom coast"), the Castellon seaboard.

In Spain, fallen blossoms are dried and then used to make tea. A French electronic and world music band has taken the name Orange Blossom.

Gallery

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  Orange flowers
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  Imperial Japanese Navy's Nakajima Kikka (Orange Blossom)
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  A woman boarding the Orange Blossom Special train c. 1930 in Sebring, Florida
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  December 1938 arrival of the Orange Blossom Special train to Plant City, Florida, the first diesel-powered passenger train in the Southeast
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  Postcard for Seaboard Air Line Railroad's Orange Blossom Special that travelled between New York City and Miami. Touted as "all electric" it used diesel engine power beginning in 1938
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  A Johnny Cash single with the widely recorded song "Orange Blossom Special"
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  Logo for the proposed Orange Blossom Express public transit service
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  A bottle of Penhaligon's Orange Blossom perfume
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  Iranian Orange Blossom Jam