Moro Blood Orange Tree
Regular price
$1,250.00
Size
Stunning Citrus Trees That Deliver Deep Red Fruit and Year-Round Beauty
Moro blood orange trees give you an edible landscape centerpiece: glossy evergreen citrus foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and medium sized fruit with deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, and a rich berry-like flavor.
This deep blood orange is prized for more than appearance. Moro blood oranges have the deepest, most intensely colored red flesh of all blood orange cultivars, with flesh ranges that can move from ruby coloration and orange veined edges to burgundy or nearly black under the perfect condition of hot days and cool winter nights.
For California gardens, patios, and edible landscapes, Moro delivers both beauty and harvest value, and it pairs well with other citrus fruit trees for sale: a distinctive tree with colorful fruit clusters, aromatic flowers, and juicy oranges that bring balanced sweetness, sharp tart flavor, and dramatic presence to winter food and drinks.
Why You'll Love It
-
Exceptional Fruit Quality – Produces the deepest red pigmentation among blood oranges, with intense flavor notes of raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. Moro blood oranges are known for their berry-like citrus flavor, dramatic crimson hue, deep red flesh, and strong flavor that is more aromatic and acidic than standard oranges.
-
Perfect for California Gardens – Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh. The red pigments develop with warm days and cold nights in winter, making warm inland valleys especially suitable for vivid pigmentation from early to late winter.
-
Compact Growth Habit – While Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in the ground, semi-dwarf options can be maintained around 8-12 feet tall and wide with proper pruning, making this citrus tree practical for smaller yards, patios, and container growing.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Evergreen foliage, fragrant white flowers, orange rind with a bright red or maroon blush, and colorful winter fruit give the plant ornamental value well beyond harvest season, especially when combined with other flowering trees for California gardens.
-
Low Maintenance – Thrives in average to evenly moist conditions without standing water, requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth, and is generally productive once roots are established.
What Makes It Different
Most citrus trees produce a normal orange: sweet, familiar, and useful, but without the distinct ruby pigment, berry aroma, or visual drama that customers expect from premium blood oranges.
Moro Blood Orange Tree provides:
-
Deepest Red Pigmentation – Moro produces the most intensely colored flesh among blood orange varieties due to high anthocyanin content. The pigmentation in Moro blood oranges is caused by anthocyanins, which are antioxidants, and the fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
-
Cold-Enhanced Color Development – Unlike other oranges, Moro needs temperature contrast to develop its red pigmentation. Warm days and cold winter night conditions help the flesh develop its ruby, burgundy, or nearly black color.
-
Early Season Harvest – Moro is the earliest ripening blood orange, maturing in January. Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter, with a broader season from November to May depending on location and maturity.
Moro blood oranges originated in the southern Mediterranean, have been cultivated since the 18th century, and are believed to be of Sicilian ancestry. This italian variety is now one of the most common blood oranges in the U.S., valued for deep red flesh, strong flavor, and a distinctive balance of sweetness with sharp tartness.
How To Grow A Moro Blood Orange Tree Successfully
-
Plant in Full Sun Location
Choose a warm site with 6-8 hours of sun when possible, though Moro blood orange trees require full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Use well-draining soil, avoid standing water, and plant where the roots can establish without being waterlogged; local experts at a plant nursery near you can also help you fine-tune placement. -
Establish with Regular Watering
Keep soil average to evenly moist during early growth, then reduce watering once the tree is established. The tree performs best when moisture is consistent but not excessive, especially as fruit begins to develop its pigment, sweetness, and aroma, similar to how lemon trees grown in containers respond to steady, moderate moisture. -
Enjoy Annual Harvest
Pick Moro blood oranges from early to late winter, generally December through March for peak flavor and ruby coloration. Moro is known for January maturity, and fruit may remain in season from November to May, but Moro blood oranges can develop an unpleasant taste if left on the tree too long.
Use the fruit fresh, juiced, or cooked. The juice has a distinct sweet flavor with raspberry hints, the zest contains highly concentrated citrus oils, and Moro blood oranges are used to create marmalade, gelato, and sorbet. They can be used in salads with fennel and olive oil, and Moro blood oranges pair beautifully with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, much like the pink, berry-toned flesh of a Cara Cara navel orange does in citrus-forward recipes.
Tree Specifications
-
Mature Size: 8-12 feet tall and wide when maintained as a semi-dwarf; Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in standard ground plantings, fitting well into designs that also use evergreen privacy trees and screens
-
Hardiness Zone: 9-11, or container growing in cooler zones with frost protection
-
Light Requirements: Full sun preferred; full sun to partial shade required for optimal growth
-
Soil Requirements: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil, pH 6.0-7.0
-
Water Needs: Average to evenly moist conditions without standing water; moderate once established
-
Pollination: Self-fertile, no pollinator required
-
Seeds: Generally seedless or contains very few seeds
-
Fruit Type: Medium sized fruit with orange peel and a bright red or maroon blush
-
Flesh Color: Deep red flesh; internal flesh color can be burgundy or nearly black
-
Flavor: Sweet, juicy, rich, and tart, with raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and berry-like citrus notes
-
Fruit Season: Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter; in season from November to May; peak harvest often December through March
-
Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold
-
Culinary Uses: Fresh eating, juice, marmalade, salads with fennel and olive oil, gelato, sorbet, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, or blending with juice from a classic Valencia orange tree
-
Nutrition: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a vibrant counterpart to ornamental trees like the Bloodgood Japanese maple
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners wanting unique, productive citrus trees for edible landscaping
-
Container gardeners seeking dwarf citrus varieties for patios and small garden spaces
-
Cooking enthusiasts who want fresh, premium blood oranges for juicing, marmalade, salads, gelato, sorbet, cocktails, and desserts
-
Customers who want a tree with fragrant flowers, colorful winter fruit, and ornamental presence near a patio, entry, or garden background, possibly combined with larger landscape trees such as a California Pepper Tree
If you want fruit that looks different from a normal orange and tastes more complex than many other oranges, Moro fits beautifully. It offers deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, very few seeds, a sweet-tart flavor, and a strong aroma that makes it useful for both edible landscaping and serious food preparation.
For customers comparing options online, photos on a product page may show intense ruby flesh, but actual pigmentation depends on your growing conditions. Before you decide, account for your winter night temperatures, frost risk, sun exposure, and whether the tree will grow in the ground or in a container. Gardeners in California often have better color results than growers in warmer humid regions, while growers in places such as Texas should explore local frost and heat patterns before planting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until my tree produces fruit?
Grafted Moro blood orange trees generally begin producing in about 2-3 years under good care. Fruit quality improves as the tree gains maturity, roots establish, and the plant receives enough sun, consistent moisture, and winter temperature contrast.
Can I grow this in a container?
Yes. Moro is a strong choice for container citrus when kept pruned and grown in a large pot with excellent drainage. Container growing helps control size, supports patio use, and makes it easier to move the tree during frost events. Use citrus soil, avoid standing water, and keep the tree in the sunniest practical location.
What if my area gets frost?
Moro blood orange trees prefer zones 9-11. If frost is expected, protect the tree or grow it in a movable container. Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold, not before the coldest weather, so the tree is not pushed into tender new growth too early.
Why is my fruit not as red as expected?
Red pigmentation depends on anthocyanins and winter temperature contrast. Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh, so warm nights can reduce ruby coloration even if the fruit is still sweet, juicy, and edible.
How should I use Moro blood oranges in the kitchen?
Use Moro blood oranges anywhere you want rich color and bright flavor. They are excellent for fresh juice, marmalade, gelato, sorbet, salads with fennel and olive oil, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate. The zest is especially useful because the peel contains highly concentrated citrus oils.
Ready to Add This Exceptional Citrus to Your Garden?
Choose Moro Blood Orange Tree for deep red flesh, balanced sweetness, sharp tartness, fragrant flowers, evergreen beauty, and a winter harvest that turns your garden into something both ornamental and productive.
Yardwork can help you choose the right planting location, container setup, and care plan for your climate, sun exposure, and frost risk, whether you’re planting citrus or branching out into shade trees like October Glory maple.
Stunning Citrus Trees That Deliver Deep Red Fruit and Year-Round Beauty
Moro blood orange trees give you an edible landscape centerpiece: glossy evergreen citrus foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and medium sized fruit with deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, and a rich berry-like flavor.
This deep blood orange is prized for more than appearance. Moro blood oranges have the deepest, most intensely colored red flesh of all blood orange cultivars, with flesh ranges that can move from ruby coloration and orange veined edges to burgundy or nearly black under the perfect condition of hot days and cool winter nights.
For California gardens, patios, and edible landscapes, Moro delivers both beauty and harvest value, and it pairs well with other citrus fruit trees for sale: a distinctive tree with colorful fruit clusters, aromatic flowers, and juicy oranges that bring balanced sweetness, sharp tart flavor, and dramatic presence to winter food and drinks.
Why You'll Love It
-
Exceptional Fruit Quality – Produces the deepest red pigmentation among blood oranges, with intense flavor notes of raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. Moro blood oranges are known for their berry-like citrus flavor, dramatic crimson hue, deep red flesh, and strong flavor that is more aromatic and acidic than standard oranges.
-
Perfect for California Gardens – Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh. The red pigments develop with warm days and cold nights in winter, making warm inland valleys especially suitable for vivid pigmentation from early to late winter.
-
Compact Growth Habit – While Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in the ground, semi-dwarf options can be maintained around 8-12 feet tall and wide with proper pruning, making this citrus tree practical for smaller yards, patios, and container growing.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Evergreen foliage, fragrant white flowers, orange rind with a bright red or maroon blush, and colorful winter fruit give the plant ornamental value well beyond harvest season, especially when combined with other flowering trees for California gardens.
-
Low Maintenance – Thrives in average to evenly moist conditions without standing water, requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth, and is generally productive once roots are established.
What Makes It Different
Most citrus trees produce a normal orange: sweet, familiar, and useful, but without the distinct ruby pigment, berry aroma, or visual drama that customers expect from premium blood oranges.
Moro Blood Orange Tree provides:
-
Deepest Red Pigmentation – Moro produces the most intensely colored flesh among blood orange varieties due to high anthocyanin content. The pigmentation in Moro blood oranges is caused by anthocyanins, which are antioxidants, and the fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
-
Cold-Enhanced Color Development – Unlike other oranges, Moro needs temperature contrast to develop its red pigmentation. Warm days and cold winter night conditions help the flesh develop its ruby, burgundy, or nearly black color.
-
Early Season Harvest – Moro is the earliest ripening blood orange, maturing in January. Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter, with a broader season from November to May depending on location and maturity.
Moro blood oranges originated in the southern Mediterranean, have been cultivated since the 18th century, and are believed to be of Sicilian ancestry. This italian variety is now one of the most common blood oranges in the U.S., valued for deep red flesh, strong flavor, and a distinctive balance of sweetness with sharp tartness.
How To Grow A Moro Blood Orange Tree Successfully
-
Plant in Full Sun Location
Choose a warm site with 6-8 hours of sun when possible, though Moro blood orange trees require full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Use well-draining soil, avoid standing water, and plant where the roots can establish without being waterlogged; local experts at a plant nursery near you can also help you fine-tune placement. -
Establish with Regular Watering
Keep soil average to evenly moist during early growth, then reduce watering once the tree is established. The tree performs best when moisture is consistent but not excessive, especially as fruit begins to develop its pigment, sweetness, and aroma, similar to how lemon trees grown in containers respond to steady, moderate moisture. -
Enjoy Annual Harvest
Pick Moro blood oranges from early to late winter, generally December through March for peak flavor and ruby coloration. Moro is known for January maturity, and fruit may remain in season from November to May, but Moro blood oranges can develop an unpleasant taste if left on the tree too long.
Use the fruit fresh, juiced, or cooked. The juice has a distinct sweet flavor with raspberry hints, the zest contains highly concentrated citrus oils, and Moro blood oranges are used to create marmalade, gelato, and sorbet. They can be used in salads with fennel and olive oil, and Moro blood oranges pair beautifully with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, much like the pink, berry-toned flesh of a Cara Cara navel orange does in citrus-forward recipes.
Tree Specifications
-
Mature Size: 8-12 feet tall and wide when maintained as a semi-dwarf; Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in standard ground plantings, fitting well into designs that also use evergreen privacy trees and screens
-
Hardiness Zone: 9-11, or container growing in cooler zones with frost protection
-
Light Requirements: Full sun preferred; full sun to partial shade required for optimal growth
-
Soil Requirements: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil, pH 6.0-7.0
-
Water Needs: Average to evenly moist conditions without standing water; moderate once established
-
Pollination: Self-fertile, no pollinator required
-
Seeds: Generally seedless or contains very few seeds
-
Fruit Type: Medium sized fruit with orange peel and a bright red or maroon blush
-
Flesh Color: Deep red flesh; internal flesh color can be burgundy or nearly black
-
Flavor: Sweet, juicy, rich, and tart, with raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and berry-like citrus notes
-
Fruit Season: Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter; in season from November to May; peak harvest often December through March
-
Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold
-
Culinary Uses: Fresh eating, juice, marmalade, salads with fennel and olive oil, gelato, sorbet, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, or blending with juice from a classic Valencia orange tree
-
Nutrition: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a vibrant counterpart to ornamental trees like the Bloodgood Japanese maple
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners wanting unique, productive citrus trees for edible landscaping
-
Container gardeners seeking dwarf citrus varieties for patios and small garden spaces
-
Cooking enthusiasts who want fresh, premium blood oranges for juicing, marmalade, salads, gelato, sorbet, cocktails, and desserts
-
Customers who want a tree with fragrant flowers, colorful winter fruit, and ornamental presence near a patio, entry, or garden background, possibly combined with larger landscape trees such as a California Pepper Tree
If you want fruit that looks different from a normal orange and tastes more complex than many other oranges, Moro fits beautifully. It offers deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, very few seeds, a sweet-tart flavor, and a strong aroma that makes it useful for both edible landscaping and serious food preparation.
For customers comparing options online, photos on a product page may show intense ruby flesh, but actual pigmentation depends on your growing conditions. Before you decide, account for your winter night temperatures, frost risk, sun exposure, and whether the tree will grow in the ground or in a container. Gardeners in California often have better color results than growers in warmer humid regions, while growers in places such as Texas should explore local frost and heat patterns before planting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until my tree produces fruit?
Grafted Moro blood orange trees generally begin producing in about 2-3 years under good care. Fruit quality improves as the tree gains maturity, roots establish, and the plant receives enough sun, consistent moisture, and winter temperature contrast.
Can I grow this in a container?
Yes. Moro is a strong choice for container citrus when kept pruned and grown in a large pot with excellent drainage. Container growing helps control size, supports patio use, and makes it easier to move the tree during frost events. Use citrus soil, avoid standing water, and keep the tree in the sunniest practical location.
What if my area gets frost?
Moro blood orange trees prefer zones 9-11. If frost is expected, protect the tree or grow it in a movable container. Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold, not before the coldest weather, so the tree is not pushed into tender new growth too early.
Why is my fruit not as red as expected?
Red pigmentation depends on anthocyanins and winter temperature contrast. Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh, so warm nights can reduce ruby coloration even if the fruit is still sweet, juicy, and edible.
How should I use Moro blood oranges in the kitchen?
Use Moro blood oranges anywhere you want rich color and bright flavor. They are excellent for fresh juice, marmalade, gelato, sorbet, salads with fennel and olive oil, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate. The zest is especially useful because the peel contains highly concentrated citrus oils.
Ready to Add This Exceptional Citrus to Your Garden?
Choose Moro Blood Orange Tree for deep red flesh, balanced sweetness, sharp tartness, fragrant flowers, evergreen beauty, and a winter harvest that turns your garden into something both ornamental and productive.
Yardwork can help you choose the right planting location, container setup, and care plan for your climate, sun exposure, and frost risk, whether you’re planting citrus or branching out into shade trees like October Glory maple.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
You may also like...
Moro Blood Orange Tree
Regular price
$1,250.00
Size
Stunning Citrus Trees That Deliver Deep Red Fruit and Year-Round Beauty
Moro blood orange trees give you an edible landscape centerpiece: glossy evergreen citrus foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and medium sized fruit with deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, and a rich berry-like flavor.
This deep blood orange is prized for more than appearance. Moro blood oranges have the deepest, most intensely colored red flesh of all blood orange cultivars, with flesh ranges that can move from ruby coloration and orange veined edges to burgundy or nearly black under the perfect condition of hot days and cool winter nights.
For California gardens, patios, and edible landscapes, Moro delivers both beauty and harvest value, and it pairs well with other citrus fruit trees for sale: a distinctive tree with colorful fruit clusters, aromatic flowers, and juicy oranges that bring balanced sweetness, sharp tart flavor, and dramatic presence to winter food and drinks.
Why You'll Love It
-
Exceptional Fruit Quality – Produces the deepest red pigmentation among blood oranges, with intense flavor notes of raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. Moro blood oranges are known for their berry-like citrus flavor, dramatic crimson hue, deep red flesh, and strong flavor that is more aromatic and acidic than standard oranges.
-
Perfect for California Gardens – Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh. The red pigments develop with warm days and cold nights in winter, making warm inland valleys especially suitable for vivid pigmentation from early to late winter.
-
Compact Growth Habit – While Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in the ground, semi-dwarf options can be maintained around 8-12 feet tall and wide with proper pruning, making this citrus tree practical for smaller yards, patios, and container growing.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Evergreen foliage, fragrant white flowers, orange rind with a bright red or maroon blush, and colorful winter fruit give the plant ornamental value well beyond harvest season, especially when combined with other flowering trees for California gardens.
-
Low Maintenance – Thrives in average to evenly moist conditions without standing water, requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth, and is generally productive once roots are established.
What Makes It Different
Most citrus trees produce a normal orange: sweet, familiar, and useful, but without the distinct ruby pigment, berry aroma, or visual drama that customers expect from premium blood oranges.
Moro Blood Orange Tree provides:
-
Deepest Red Pigmentation – Moro produces the most intensely colored flesh among blood orange varieties due to high anthocyanin content. The pigmentation in Moro blood oranges is caused by anthocyanins, which are antioxidants, and the fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
-
Cold-Enhanced Color Development – Unlike other oranges, Moro needs temperature contrast to develop its red pigmentation. Warm days and cold winter night conditions help the flesh develop its ruby, burgundy, or nearly black color.
-
Early Season Harvest – Moro is the earliest ripening blood orange, maturing in January. Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter, with a broader season from November to May depending on location and maturity.
Moro blood oranges originated in the southern Mediterranean, have been cultivated since the 18th century, and are believed to be of Sicilian ancestry. This italian variety is now one of the most common blood oranges in the U.S., valued for deep red flesh, strong flavor, and a distinctive balance of sweetness with sharp tartness.
How To Grow A Moro Blood Orange Tree Successfully
-
Plant in Full Sun Location
Choose a warm site with 6-8 hours of sun when possible, though Moro blood orange trees require full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Use well-draining soil, avoid standing water, and plant where the roots can establish without being waterlogged; local experts at a plant nursery near you can also help you fine-tune placement. -
Establish with Regular Watering
Keep soil average to evenly moist during early growth, then reduce watering once the tree is established. The tree performs best when moisture is consistent but not excessive, especially as fruit begins to develop its pigment, sweetness, and aroma, similar to how lemon trees grown in containers respond to steady, moderate moisture. -
Enjoy Annual Harvest
Pick Moro blood oranges from early to late winter, generally December through March for peak flavor and ruby coloration. Moro is known for January maturity, and fruit may remain in season from November to May, but Moro blood oranges can develop an unpleasant taste if left on the tree too long.
Use the fruit fresh, juiced, or cooked. The juice has a distinct sweet flavor with raspberry hints, the zest contains highly concentrated citrus oils, and Moro blood oranges are used to create marmalade, gelato, and sorbet. They can be used in salads with fennel and olive oil, and Moro blood oranges pair beautifully with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, much like the pink, berry-toned flesh of a Cara Cara navel orange does in citrus-forward recipes.
Tree Specifications
-
Mature Size: 8-12 feet tall and wide when maintained as a semi-dwarf; Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in standard ground plantings, fitting well into designs that also use evergreen privacy trees and screens
-
Hardiness Zone: 9-11, or container growing in cooler zones with frost protection
-
Light Requirements: Full sun preferred; full sun to partial shade required for optimal growth
-
Soil Requirements: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil, pH 6.0-7.0
-
Water Needs: Average to evenly moist conditions without standing water; moderate once established
-
Pollination: Self-fertile, no pollinator required
-
Seeds: Generally seedless or contains very few seeds
-
Fruit Type: Medium sized fruit with orange peel and a bright red or maroon blush
-
Flesh Color: Deep red flesh; internal flesh color can be burgundy or nearly black
-
Flavor: Sweet, juicy, rich, and tart, with raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and berry-like citrus notes
-
Fruit Season: Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter; in season from November to May; peak harvest often December through March
-
Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold
-
Culinary Uses: Fresh eating, juice, marmalade, salads with fennel and olive oil, gelato, sorbet, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, or blending with juice from a classic Valencia orange tree
-
Nutrition: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a vibrant counterpart to ornamental trees like the Bloodgood Japanese maple
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners wanting unique, productive citrus trees for edible landscaping
-
Container gardeners seeking dwarf citrus varieties for patios and small garden spaces
-
Cooking enthusiasts who want fresh, premium blood oranges for juicing, marmalade, salads, gelato, sorbet, cocktails, and desserts
-
Customers who want a tree with fragrant flowers, colorful winter fruit, and ornamental presence near a patio, entry, or garden background, possibly combined with larger landscape trees such as a California Pepper Tree
If you want fruit that looks different from a normal orange and tastes more complex than many other oranges, Moro fits beautifully. It offers deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, very few seeds, a sweet-tart flavor, and a strong aroma that makes it useful for both edible landscaping and serious food preparation.
For customers comparing options online, photos on a product page may show intense ruby flesh, but actual pigmentation depends on your growing conditions. Before you decide, account for your winter night temperatures, frost risk, sun exposure, and whether the tree will grow in the ground or in a container. Gardeners in California often have better color results than growers in warmer humid regions, while growers in places such as Texas should explore local frost and heat patterns before planting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until my tree produces fruit?
Grafted Moro blood orange trees generally begin producing in about 2-3 years under good care. Fruit quality improves as the tree gains maturity, roots establish, and the plant receives enough sun, consistent moisture, and winter temperature contrast.
Can I grow this in a container?
Yes. Moro is a strong choice for container citrus when kept pruned and grown in a large pot with excellent drainage. Container growing helps control size, supports patio use, and makes it easier to move the tree during frost events. Use citrus soil, avoid standing water, and keep the tree in the sunniest practical location.
What if my area gets frost?
Moro blood orange trees prefer zones 9-11. If frost is expected, protect the tree or grow it in a movable container. Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold, not before the coldest weather, so the tree is not pushed into tender new growth too early.
Why is my fruit not as red as expected?
Red pigmentation depends on anthocyanins and winter temperature contrast. Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh, so warm nights can reduce ruby coloration even if the fruit is still sweet, juicy, and edible.
How should I use Moro blood oranges in the kitchen?
Use Moro blood oranges anywhere you want rich color and bright flavor. They are excellent for fresh juice, marmalade, gelato, sorbet, salads with fennel and olive oil, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate. The zest is especially useful because the peel contains highly concentrated citrus oils.
Ready to Add This Exceptional Citrus to Your Garden?
Choose Moro Blood Orange Tree for deep red flesh, balanced sweetness, sharp tartness, fragrant flowers, evergreen beauty, and a winter harvest that turns your garden into something both ornamental and productive.
Yardwork can help you choose the right planting location, container setup, and care plan for your climate, sun exposure, and frost risk, whether you’re planting citrus or branching out into shade trees like October Glory maple.
Stunning Citrus Trees That Deliver Deep Red Fruit and Year-Round Beauty
Moro blood orange trees give you an edible landscape centerpiece: glossy evergreen citrus foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and medium sized fruit with deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, and a rich berry-like flavor.
This deep blood orange is prized for more than appearance. Moro blood oranges have the deepest, most intensely colored red flesh of all blood orange cultivars, with flesh ranges that can move from ruby coloration and orange veined edges to burgundy or nearly black under the perfect condition of hot days and cool winter nights.
For California gardens, patios, and edible landscapes, Moro delivers both beauty and harvest value, and it pairs well with other citrus fruit trees for sale: a distinctive tree with colorful fruit clusters, aromatic flowers, and juicy oranges that bring balanced sweetness, sharp tart flavor, and dramatic presence to winter food and drinks.
Why You'll Love It
-
Exceptional Fruit Quality – Produces the deepest red pigmentation among blood oranges, with intense flavor notes of raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. Moro blood oranges are known for their berry-like citrus flavor, dramatic crimson hue, deep red flesh, and strong flavor that is more aromatic and acidic than standard oranges.
-
Perfect for California Gardens – Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh. The red pigments develop with warm days and cold nights in winter, making warm inland valleys especially suitable for vivid pigmentation from early to late winter.
-
Compact Growth Habit – While Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in the ground, semi-dwarf options can be maintained around 8-12 feet tall and wide with proper pruning, making this citrus tree practical for smaller yards, patios, and container growing.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Evergreen foliage, fragrant white flowers, orange rind with a bright red or maroon blush, and colorful winter fruit give the plant ornamental value well beyond harvest season, especially when combined with other flowering trees for California gardens.
-
Low Maintenance – Thrives in average to evenly moist conditions without standing water, requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth, and is generally productive once roots are established.
What Makes It Different
Most citrus trees produce a normal orange: sweet, familiar, and useful, but without the distinct ruby pigment, berry aroma, or visual drama that customers expect from premium blood oranges.
Moro Blood Orange Tree provides:
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Deepest Red Pigmentation – Moro produces the most intensely colored flesh among blood orange varieties due to high anthocyanin content. The pigmentation in Moro blood oranges is caused by anthocyanins, which are antioxidants, and the fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
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Cold-Enhanced Color Development – Unlike other oranges, Moro needs temperature contrast to develop its red pigmentation. Warm days and cold winter night conditions help the flesh develop its ruby, burgundy, or nearly black color.
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Early Season Harvest – Moro is the earliest ripening blood orange, maturing in January. Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter, with a broader season from November to May depending on location and maturity.
Moro blood oranges originated in the southern Mediterranean, have been cultivated since the 18th century, and are believed to be of Sicilian ancestry. This italian variety is now one of the most common blood oranges in the U.S., valued for deep red flesh, strong flavor, and a distinctive balance of sweetness with sharp tartness.
How To Grow A Moro Blood Orange Tree Successfully
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Plant in Full Sun Location
Choose a warm site with 6-8 hours of sun when possible, though Moro blood orange trees require full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Use well-draining soil, avoid standing water, and plant where the roots can establish without being waterlogged; local experts at a plant nursery near you can also help you fine-tune placement. -
Establish with Regular Watering
Keep soil average to evenly moist during early growth, then reduce watering once the tree is established. The tree performs best when moisture is consistent but not excessive, especially as fruit begins to develop its pigment, sweetness, and aroma, similar to how lemon trees grown in containers respond to steady, moderate moisture. -
Enjoy Annual Harvest
Pick Moro blood oranges from early to late winter, generally December through March for peak flavor and ruby coloration. Moro is known for January maturity, and fruit may remain in season from November to May, but Moro blood oranges can develop an unpleasant taste if left on the tree too long.
Use the fruit fresh, juiced, or cooked. The juice has a distinct sweet flavor with raspberry hints, the zest contains highly concentrated citrus oils, and Moro blood oranges are used to create marmalade, gelato, and sorbet. They can be used in salads with fennel and olive oil, and Moro blood oranges pair beautifully with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, much like the pink, berry-toned flesh of a Cara Cara navel orange does in citrus-forward recipes.
Tree Specifications
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Mature Size: 8-12 feet tall and wide when maintained as a semi-dwarf; Moro blood orange trees grow to about 20 feet tall in standard ground plantings, fitting well into designs that also use evergreen privacy trees and screens
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Hardiness Zone: 9-11, or container growing in cooler zones with frost protection
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Light Requirements: Full sun preferred; full sun to partial shade required for optimal growth
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Soil Requirements: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil, pH 6.0-7.0
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Water Needs: Average to evenly moist conditions without standing water; moderate once established
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Pollination: Self-fertile, no pollinator required
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Seeds: Generally seedless or contains very few seeds
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Fruit Type: Medium sized fruit with orange peel and a bright red or maroon blush
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Flesh Color: Deep red flesh; internal flesh color can be burgundy or nearly black
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Flavor: Sweet, juicy, rich, and tart, with raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and berry-like citrus notes
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Fruit Season: Moro blood oranges are typically ready for picking from early to late winter; in season from November to May; peak harvest often December through March
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Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold
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Culinary Uses: Fresh eating, juice, marmalade, salads with fennel and olive oil, gelato, sorbet, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate, or blending with juice from a classic Valencia orange tree
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Nutrition: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a vibrant counterpart to ornamental trees like the Bloodgood Japanese maple
Who It's For
Ideal for:
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California homeowners wanting unique, productive citrus trees for edible landscaping
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Container gardeners seeking dwarf citrus varieties for patios and small garden spaces
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Cooking enthusiasts who want fresh, premium blood oranges for juicing, marmalade, salads, gelato, sorbet, cocktails, and desserts
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Customers who want a tree with fragrant flowers, colorful winter fruit, and ornamental presence near a patio, entry, or garden background, possibly combined with larger landscape trees such as a California Pepper Tree
If you want fruit that looks different from a normal orange and tastes more complex than many other oranges, Moro fits beautifully. It offers deep red flesh, a bright red blush on the rind, very few seeds, a sweet-tart flavor, and a strong aroma that makes it useful for both edible landscaping and serious food preparation.
For customers comparing options online, photos on a product page may show intense ruby flesh, but actual pigmentation depends on your growing conditions. Before you decide, account for your winter night temperatures, frost risk, sun exposure, and whether the tree will grow in the ground or in a container. Gardeners in California often have better color results than growers in warmer humid regions, while growers in places such as Texas should explore local frost and heat patterns before planting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until my tree produces fruit?
Grafted Moro blood orange trees generally begin producing in about 2-3 years under good care. Fruit quality improves as the tree gains maturity, roots establish, and the plant receives enough sun, consistent moisture, and winter temperature contrast.
Can I grow this in a container?
Yes. Moro is a strong choice for container citrus when kept pruned and grown in a large pot with excellent drainage. Container growing helps control size, supports patio use, and makes it easier to move the tree during frost events. Use citrus soil, avoid standing water, and keep the tree in the sunniest practical location.
What if my area gets frost?
Moro blood orange trees prefer zones 9-11. If frost is expected, protect the tree or grow it in a movable container. Pruning should be done in late winter after extreme cold, not before the coldest weather, so the tree is not pushed into tender new growth too early.
Why is my fruit not as red as expected?
Red pigmentation depends on anthocyanins and winter temperature contrast. Moro blood oranges require hot days and cool winter nights to develop their red flesh, so warm nights can reduce ruby coloration even if the fruit is still sweet, juicy, and edible.
How should I use Moro blood oranges in the kitchen?
Use Moro blood oranges anywhere you want rich color and bright flavor. They are excellent for fresh juice, marmalade, gelato, sorbet, salads with fennel and olive oil, and pairings with fennel, beets, and dark chocolate. The zest is especially useful because the peel contains highly concentrated citrus oils.
Ready to Add This Exceptional Citrus to Your Garden?
Choose Moro Blood Orange Tree for deep red flesh, balanced sweetness, sharp tartness, fragrant flowers, evergreen beauty, and a winter harvest that turns your garden into something both ornamental and productive.
Yardwork can help you choose the right planting location, container setup, and care plan for your climate, sun exposure, and frost risk, whether you’re planting citrus or branching out into shade trees like October Glory maple.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.