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Rutaceae TREE OUTDOOR Placement Primary: Aromatic Food Ornamental Medicinal Other

Bergamot Orange

Citrus bergamia

Identified By Marcs

The bergamot orange is a small, fragrant citrus tree that produces pear-shaped fruits turning from green to yellow as they ripen. Highly valued for its distinct essential oil extracted from the rind, it is a staple in the fragrance and flavoring industries, most notably providing the characteristic aroma of Earl Grey tea. Originating primarily in southern Italy, this citrus thrives in Mediterranean climates requiring abundant sunlight and well-draining soils. While the fruit itself is too sour and bitter for fresh consumption, its aromatic peel holds immense commercial and culinary value worldwide.

Also known as: Bergamot Citrus aurantium var. bergamia

Toxicity & Safety

Is Bergamot Orange toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

The bergamot orange tree contains essential oils such as bergapten, linalool, and limonene, as well as phototoxic psoralens, which are highly toxic to domestic pets including cats, dogs, and horses. Ingestion of any part of the plant, especially the fruit rinds and leaves, can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential central nervous system depression. Direct skin contact with the crushed leaves or oils can also cause severe dermatitis or photosensitivity in sensitive animals.

Is Bergamot Orange toxic to humans?

No, Bergamot Orange is generally safe for humans.

Is Bergamot Orange safe during pregnancy?

Generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 200 - 400 cm
Width 150 - 300 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Moderate
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 5°C - 35°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 10 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 6 - 7.5
Watering Interval 7 - 14 days
Humidity 40.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 9a - 11b

Mediterranean Basin

Climate: Characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters with abundant sunshine and protection from freezing winter winds.

Soils: Loam Sandy loam Well-drained alluvial soil
Annual Rainfall: 500 - 900 mm

Native Regions

Southeast Asia (ID – Asia)
Calabria, Italy

How to Care for Bergamot Orange

How should I handle watering your bergamot orange?

Water your bergamot orange tree deeply and regularly during the growing season, allowing the top several centimeters of soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Reduce watering frequency significantly during the cooler winter months to prevent root rot and fungal issues, ensuring the container or planting site drains efficiently at all times.

How should I handle sunlight requirements?

Place or plant your bergamot orange in a location that receives full, direct sunlight for at least six to eight hours every single day. Inadequate sunlight will severely reduce fruit production, diminish the aromatic quality of the essential oils, and make the tree significantly more susceptible to pest infestations and fungal diseases.

How to Propagate Bergamot Orange

How to propagate Bergamot Orange by grafting?

Select a healthy, disease-resistant citrus rootstock raised from seed or cuttings. Take a scion wood cutting from a mature, high-yielding bergamot orange tree with desirable fruit and aromatic characteristics. Use a sharp, sterilized grafting knife to make matching cuts on both the rootstock and scion, typically employing a whip-and-tongue or T-budding technique. Bind the union tightly with grafting tape to ensure close cambium contact and protect it from moisture loss. Place the grafted plant in a warm, humid propagation environment until the union heals completely and new active growth emerges from the scion.

Common Diseases & Pests of Bergamot Orange

What is Citrus Canker and how is it treated?

Bacterial
Symptoms:

Citrus canker manifests as raised, brown, corky lesions surrounded by a yellow halo on the leaves, twigs, and fruit surfaces. Severe infections can cause premature leaf drop, dieback of young branches, and render the harvested fruits unmarketable and heavily blemished.

Treatment:

Prune and destroy severely infected branches immediately to limit bacterial spread. Apply copper-based bactericides during flush growth periods according to local agricultural guidelines, and ensure tools are sterilized between cuts to prevent cross-contamination across trees.

Prevention:

Plant certified disease-free rootstocks and varieties. Implement windbreaks to minimize mechanical damage to foliage caused by blowing sand and debris, which provides entry points for the bacteria. Avoid overhead irrigation to keep leaf surfaces as dry as possible.

Properties & Benefits of Bergamot Orange

Bears Fruit Used for Tea/Tisane Aromatic Plant

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of aromatherapy and stress relief in Bergamot Orange?

The essential oil extracted from the rind of the bergamot orange is widely celebrated in aromatherapy for its calming and uplifting properties. Inhalation of the vapor helps to soothe the nervous system, alleviate symptoms of everyday anxiety, reduce mental fatigue, and promote a balanced mood. Its complex aromatic profile combines refreshing citrus notes with subtle floral undertones, making it a favorite for creating serene environments and supporting emotional well-being.

Precautions: Always dilute the essential oil properly in a carrier oil before topical application, and avoid direct sun exposure on treated areas due to phototoxicity risks.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Vitamin C rich in 53 mg / 100g

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