Citrus Fruit

Cyprus offers a full range of citrus fruit available from October to June, with many of the popular varieties of oranges, lemons, grapefruit and soft citrus.

Oranges

The reputation earned by Cyprus for high quality oranges reflects decades of experience with the crop. The main varieties grown are Navel, Oval and Valencia Late. The fact that Cyprus has been able to maintain and improve export volumes, underlines the careful husbandry and skilled marketing undertaken by the packers/exporters.

Main varieties: Navels, Ovals (Shamoutis), Valencia Late

Seasonal availability

Navels: December to January


Ovals: December to March


Valencia Late: February to June

Lemons

Cultivation of lemons is steeped in the history of Cyprus. The high demand for the preferred thin-skinned, juicy lemons has ensured that the island maintains its place as a major winter and spring supplier.

Main varieties: Lapithiodiko, Eureka, Lisbon

Seasonal availability: October to May

Grapefruit

Grapefruit produced in Cyprus has a high juice and sugar content which is the result of virtually perfect growing conditions. New plantations have been established and there is now an export capacity for both white and red flesh grapefruit varieties.

Main varieties: White Marsh Seedless, Star Ruby, Rio Red

Seasonal availability: October to June

Soft Citrus

Originally based on Clementines, Cyprus has had a long experience in soft citrus growing. The increasing demand for easy peelers in world markets has encouraged the expansion and adaptation of citrus production with particular emphasis on hybrids.

Main varieties: Mandoras, Minneolas, Nova, Clementines

Seasonal availability

Mandoras: February to April


Clementines & Nova: November to December


Minneolas: January to March