The orange blossom, or Citrus sinensis, is Florida’s state flower. The sweet-scented white flowers bloom from February to April and are associated with the state’s history of growing and producing oranges. Orange blossom honey, perfume, candies, and tea are made from the flowers.
Florida’s state flower is the orange blossom, or Citrus sinensis. Orange blossoms are extraordinarily fragrant and the small white flowers infuse a distinctive sweet scent to the Florida spring landscape. Although the orange tree is not native to Florida, orange trees have been synonymous with Florida since before statehood was granted in 1845. The Florida state legislature declared the orange blossom the state flower on November 15, 1909, and remains a beloved symbol of the state.
The orange blossom that is the state flower of Florida is the flower of the sweet orange tree. Usually in bloom from February to April, the tiny flowers scent the Florida spring air powerfully. The flowers are white, slightly waxy and have five petals. Blooming alone or in groups of up to six, a single orange tree can be covered in hundreds of flowers in spring.
Orange blossoms are an especially apt state symbol of Florida due to the extensive history of growing and producing orange trees within the state. Spanish explorers first introduced orange trees to Florida in the 1500s. Although oranges are likely native to Southeast Asia, when the orange blossom was declared the state flower of Florida in 1909, more oranges were growing in the United States than in any other country in the world.
Florida continues to be known for producing orange juice. Brazil actually produces significantly more oranges a year, but Florida produces particularly high-quality orange juice. Sandy soil and a warm, humid subtropical climate continue to make citrus one of Florida’s leading industries.
Enjoying the Florida state flower doesn’t have to be limited to the spring months. Orange blossoms are commonly made into perfume and the scent is enjoyed by people all over the world throughout the year. The state flower of Florida is also known in the form of orange blossom honey. Orange blossom honey is produced in the hives of orange groves. Not only do bees help pollinate the citrus crop, but orange blossom honey is prized for its unique orange flavor.
In addition to perfume and honey, Florida orange blossoms are also made into orange blossom candies and orange blossom water. The flowers can be dried and made into orange blossom tea. Orange blossoms are also traditionally associated with luck and good fortune and have a long history of being included in weddings.
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