Zitrus

Zitrus is the German term for citrus fruits and, in botanical contexts, for the citrus genus and its cultivated varieties. In everyday usage, Zitrus refers to fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, mandarins, and related hybrids that are produced by species in the genus Citrus and closely related genera in the Rutaceae family. The term also appears in signage and product labeling as a general descriptor for citrus products.

Etymology and taxonomy: The word Zitrus derives from the Latin citrus, borrowed into German through early modern scientific nomenclature. The genus Citrus is placed in the family Rutaceae, order Sapindales. Species commonly cultivated for consumption include Citrus sinensis (sweet orange), Citrus limon (lemon), Citrus aurantium (bitter orange), Citrus reticulata (mandarin), and Citrus paradisi (grapefruit). Hybrid forms such as tangelo and orangelime result from interspecific crosses; kumquats were sometimes classified in an independent Fortunella genus, but many taxonomies now include them within Citrus.

Distribution, cultivation, and uses: Zitrus crops are grown across subtropical and tropical regions worldwide. Factors such as climate, soil, and irrigation affect yield and fruit quality. Citrus fruits are important for their sensory attributes and nutrition, notably vitamin C, flavonoids, and essential oils in zest. They are consumed fresh, processed into juice and preserves, or used for flavoring and essential oils.

See also: Citrus genus, Zitrusfrucht, Rutaceae, Citrus greening disease.