flavedo

Flavedo is the colored outermost layer of the pericarp in many citrus fruits and related species. Also known as the exocarp or simply the peel, it comprises the epidermis and adjacent subepidermal tissues and is distinct from the white, spongy albedo beneath. The flavedo contains pigment and numerous oil glands that produce volatile compounds, giving citrus peels their characteristic aroma.

Anatomy and composition: The flavedo features a waxy cuticle and air-filled spaces housing essential oil glands. Its color results from carotenoids that accumulate during fruit maturation. The primary essential oil component is limonene, with smaller amounts of pinene, linalool, and other terpenoids contributing to diversity among species and varieties. The tissue is rich in lipids and pigments, and its structure supports both protective and sensory roles.

Function: The flavedo serves as a protective barrier against desiccation, pests, and pathogens, while also enabling gas exchange and signaling through volatile emissions. Its fragrance and zest are important for pollinator interactions, fruit dispersal, and, in human use, culinary and industrial applications.

Terminology and relation to other parts: In botanical terms, the flavedo corresponds to the exocarp, with the albedo representing the inner mesocarp. Together, the flavedo and albedo form the peel or rind of citrus fruits. Peel color and oil content vary by cultivar and ripeness, influencing flavor, aroma, processing, and commercial value.