As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Are you ready to add a gorgeous burst of color and a unique sweet-tart flavor to your winter meals? Then it’s time to talk about blood oranges! These strikingly beautiful citrus fruits are a favorite for a reason. Unlike their more conventional cousins, the Naval and Cara-Cara oranges, these crimson-colored beauties only grace our produce aisles for a limited time.
Let’s dive into exactly when you can find blood oranges and why their seasonality is so important.
A little note
You may see blood oranges labeled as “raspberry oranges” in your local grocery store. Many describe their complex flavor as having distinct berry-like notes. Another reason? Marketing! Because who likes the thought of eating a juicy, red-colored “blood” orange? Call them what you please, we love these winter jewels all the same.
The Blood Orange’s Signature Season
The primary season for blood oranges in the Northern Hemisphere—including the United States and the Mediterranean—is winter and early spring.
Blood oranges are unique in that they require specific, cool nighttime temperatures during their ripening phase to develop their signature deep-red pigment, called anthocyanins. This is why they thrive during the cooler winter months! The colder the nights, the deeper the hue and the more intense the flavor.
Featured recipe
Fresh Raspberry Orange Juice Recipe
This all-natural orange juice recipe is 100% citrus based with no added sugar.
Health Benefits of Blood Oranges
Research shows that inflammation contributes to chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, among many others. The good news? Natural compounds found in fruits and vegetables can help fight inflammation. Anthocyanins are the powerful antioxidant-containing pigments that give purple, red and blue-violet hued fruits and veggies, including blood oranges, their vibrant colors. Check out the Sweet New Roots article “What You Should Know About Anthocyanins” to learn more about the incredible power of antioxidants to heal the human body.
Blood Orange Varieties and U.S. Growing Regions
Not all blood oranges arrive at the same time! Knowing the main varieties can help you catch your favorite during its prime.
|
VARIETY |
TYPICAL SEASON |
KEY CHARACTERISTICS |
|---|---|---|
|
Moro |
December – March |
The most common variety; early to ripen; distinct sweet-tart flavor; one of the darkest flesh colors. |
|
Tarocco |
January – May |
Often considered the sweetest and least acidic; a medium-sized fruit that may be seedless. |
|
Sanguinello |
Late Winter – Spring |
Cultivated primarily in Spain; tends to have consistent red streaking in the flesh; sweet and less tart than the Moro. |
In the U.S., blood oranges are predominantly grown in California and Texas, with California generally offering a longer season (November to May). Florida does produce some blood oranges as well, though not as prolifically as the other two states as of Fall 2025.
Keep an eye out for Sicilian-grown imports, too, as they are renowned for their exceptional color and unique flavor profile developed near Mount Etna, Italy.
Sparkling Blood Orange Lemonade Recipe
There’s sunshine in every sip of this all-natural, no added sugar Sparkling Blood Orange Lemonade.
The Superfood Power of Seasonal Citrus
As someone with a certificate and plant-based nutrition and many years of experience serving as a writer in the corporate health industry, I cannot tell you how often I’ve heard medical professionals and leading researchers express the importance of eating with the seasons. Catching blood oranges (as with any fruit or vegetable) during their peak isn’t just about maximizing taste—it’s about getting the biggest nutritional boost.
Blood oranges are an excellent source of Vitamin C and are incredibly rich essential vitamins and nutrients. You often hear people say, “Eat the rainbow!” and it’s true. The vibrant red pigments are what make this fruit stand out in your bowl and provide wonderful cellular support for your body. The short, cool growing season ensures these protective compounds reach their maximum concentration.
Blood oranges offer a delightful escape from winter’s chill with their gorgeous color and complex flavor—a perfect mix of raspberry-like sweetness and citrus tang.
The next time you see them piled high at the market, grab a bag! Their limited window means you should take advantage of their peak flavor and nutritional potency while you can!
*Disclaimer
All content and information on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Sweet New Roots, LLC. is not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this website.
