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What Citrus Grows in Hawaii? A Tropical Guide

Hawaii, a paradise known for its lush landscapes and tropical climate, is also a haven for a diverse range of citrus fruits. The warm weather and abundant sunshine provide ideal conditions for citrus cultivation, resulting in a variety of flavorful and juicy fruits. So, what citrus grows in Hawaii? The answer is surprisingly broad and includes more than 100 varieties including oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, pomelos, tangelos, tangerines, and even the unique Buddha’s hand. This abundance is a testament to Hawaii’s suitability for citrus farming, making it a significant contributor to the state’s agricultural landscape. From the widely cultivated Washington Navel orange to the uniquely shaped Buddha’s Hand, citrus in Hawaii offers a delightful experience for residents and visitors alike. The thin skin on Hawaiian citrus also means that they yield two to three times more juice than their store-bought counterparts.

The Variety of Citrus in Hawaii

Popular Citrus Types

Hawaii boasts a wide range of citrus fruits, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most commonly found citrus types:

Oranges: The Washington Navel orange is the most widely planted and prolific variety in Hawaii. These are medium-sized trees with a round crown and produce large, seedless fruits with a rich, juicy flavor. Other orange varieties may also be found, but the Washington Navel is the most prominent.
Lemons: Several types of lemons thrive in Hawaii, including the very adaptable Meyer Lemon, known for its smooth, thin skin and heavy production. Another very common lemon is ‘Kalpi’, a natural hybrid, which is very prolific. You might also find the bumpy skinned ‘Jambiri’, which was originally used as a rootstock but is now a popular backyard tree.
Limes: Limes are abundant in Hawaii, used in everything from local cuisine to refreshing drinks. While specific varieties aren’t always detailed in general information, it’s safe to assume various types are grown, given their popularity.
Grapefruit: Grapefruit is another well-established citrus in Hawaii, providing a slightly bitter but refreshing flavor.
Pomelos: As the largest citrus fruit, the pomelo (also known as jabong in Hawaii) offers a sweeter, milder taste than grapefruit. Its thick skin and pinkish-yellow segments may take time to prepare but are well worth the effort.
Tangelos: A hybrid of tangerines and either pomelos or grapefruit, tangelos offer a unique blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Tangerines: Also known as mandarins, tangerines are common in Hawaii. While they might have a greenish tint due to the tropical climate, they are still sweet and delicious.
Buddha’s Hand: A uniquely shaped citrus with finger-like sections, the Buddha’s Hand is more ornamental than culinary but still offers a distinctive fragrance and flavor.

Other Notable Citrus

Beyond the mainstream varieties, other citrus fruits and species are also found in Hawaii, adding to the diversity:

Pummelo: The pummelo is another large citrus fruit, similar to a pomelo, and sometimes used interchangeably. It is included as one of the main citrus types grown here.
Culinary and Ornamental Citrus: Some species are grown more for their culinary uses, such as the use of zest and oils, or for ornamental purposes, enhancing the beauty of Hawaiian gardens.

Challenges in Citrus Cultivation

Despite the favorable climate, citrus growers in Hawaii face certain challenges.

Aphids: One common issue is curling leaves, often caused by the presence of aphids. These pests can damage the trees if not managed properly.
Stem Pitting: Another major concern is stem pitting, the most commonly occurring disease caused by CTV (Citrus Tristeza Virus) in Hawaii. This disease is no longer as prevalent as it once was since growers have moved away from the rootstock that was susceptible to it.

History of Citrus in Hawaii

The history of citrus in Hawaii is quite fascinating. It dates back to 1792 when seeds of a particular orange variety, now known as the Kona orange, Waialua orange, or Waimea orange on different islands, were introduced from Capetown, South Africa, by Captain George Vancouver. Since then, citrus has become an integral part of Hawaiian agriculture and home gardens.

Growing Citrus in Home Gardens

Citrus trees are relatively small and widely adapted, making them suitable for home gardens throughout Hawaii. Common types grown around homes include lemon, lime, orange, mandarin, tangelo, grapefruit, and pummelo. They are almost carefree, making them a great choice for home gardeners in Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about citrus growing in Hawaii:

1. Are all citrus varieties readily available in Hawaii?

While many citrus varieties thrive in Hawaii, not all are equally widespread. Common types like Washington Navel oranges, Meyer lemons, and pomelos are widely available, but more exotic or less popular types might be less common and are often available at local farmers markets.

2. Why do Hawaiian citrus fruits have thinner skins?

The tropical climate and growing conditions in Hawaii contribute to citrus fruits having thinner skins. This characteristic also results in a higher juice yield compared to citrus from other regions.

3. What is the best time of year to harvest citrus in Hawaii?

While some citrus fruits may be available year-round, peak harvest seasons vary. Generally, many citrus varieties ripen during the winter and spring months, though harvest times can extend throughout the year depending on the specific fruit type.

4. How do I prevent aphids on my citrus trees?

Regular monitoring and the use of natural or chemical controls like insecticidal soaps or neem oil can help manage aphid infestations. Maintaining the health of the tree and encouraging beneficial insects can also reduce aphid problems.

5. What rootstock is best for growing citrus in Hawaii?

Heen Naran and Rangpur lime are considered excellent rootstocks for Hawaii, known for their vigor, disease resistance, and adaptability to various soil types.

6. Can I grow citrus from seed in Hawaii?

While technically possible, growing citrus from seed can result in trees that do not produce the same quality fruit as the parent tree. Grafting is the recommended method to ensure the desired fruit characteristics.

7. Are citrus trees difficult to maintain in Hawaii?

Many citrus varieties are relatively low-maintenance in Hawaii’s climate. Regular watering, occasional fertilization, and pest monitoring are usually sufficient for healthy growth.

8. What is the difference between a pummelo and a pomelo?

The terms are often used interchangeably and are, in fact, the same fruit. Pummelo is another name for pomelo, and both refer to the largest citrus fruit.

9. Do tangerines and oranges have a different look in Hawaii?

Yes, due to the tropical climate, oranges and tangerines in Hawaii often have a greenish tint to the skin and a tighter adherence of the peel, making them more difficult to peel than citrus grown in more temperate climates.

10. What is the “Hawaiian Orange” that was introduced in 1792?

The “Hawaiian orange” refers to the citrus variety introduced in 1792 from Capetown, South Africa. This same orange is known as Kona orange on Hawaii, Waialua orange on Oahu, and Waimea orange on Kauai.

11. Is it legal to harvest citrus from public land?

It is not legal to harvest from State Forest Reserves without a permit, which can be obtained through the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife online system. It is recommended that you do not harvest on private land unless you have been given permission.

12. How much juice will I get from citrus grown in Hawaii?

Thanks to their thinner skins, citrus from Hawaii often yields two to three times more juice than similar fruit from other areas.

13. Are there any unique citrus varieties in Hawaii?

Yes, varieties like the ‘Kalpi’ lemon, a natural hybrid, and the Buddha’s Hand with its unique shape, add to the diverse citrus offerings in Hawaii.

14. Do citrus trees grow well in pots in Hawaii?

Yes, many citrus varieties can be grown in containers in Hawaii. Choose a pot that is large enough for the tree’s roots and ensure good drainage.

15. Where can I buy citrus in Hawaii?

You can find citrus at most grocery stores and local farmers markets around the islands. Farmers markets often offer a greater variety and locally grown fruits.

In conclusion, citrus cultivation is a significant part of Hawaii’s agricultural landscape. The variety of fruits, from the ubiquitous oranges to the more unusual Buddha’s Hand, reflects the unique growing conditions and rich agricultural history of the islands. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the diverse citrus offerings of Hawaii is a true tropical delight.

What citrus grows in Hawaii?