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Origin

The Valencia Late orange variety has an uncertain origin, although it is believed to come from Portugal, where it appeared a long time ago. Initially, it received names such as Excelsior, Rivers Late, Hart Late, or Hart's Tardif, until it was named Valencia Late in 1987. It was introduced in Spain by the Naranjera de Levante Station and began to spread widely in the first half of the 20th century. In the 1977-1978 campaign, it surpassed the Berna variety in production, becoming the most cultivated late orange variety in Spain. In 1966, the Late Frost variety, of nuclear origin, was imported from California and began to be commercially disseminated.

Characteristics

The Valencia Late tree is vigorous and thornless. It has low viable pollen and is self-compatible. The fruit is medium-sized, weighing between 170 and 220 grams, with a diameter of 64 to 80 mm. It is round in shape, with a diameter/height ratio of 1.01. The rind is a bright orange color, with a color index of 10, and a thickness of 2.7 to 3.7 mm. The pulp is juicy, with a juice content that varies between 53% and 58%. The number of seeds per fruit is low, generally between 1 and 4. The flavor is balanced, with a notable sweetness and a slight acidity.

Harvesting period

The harvesting of Valencia Late in the Comunitat Valenciana takes place between March 20 and June 15. This variety holds well on the tree, allowing for harvesting until summer without losing quality. Its optimal fresh marketing window spans from late March to mid-June.

Culinary uses

Valencia Late is suitable for both fresh consumption and industry. Its high juice content and balanced flavor profile make it ideal for the production of natural juices. Additionally, its juicy pulp and slightly acidic flavor make it an excellent option for direct consumption as table fruit.

Agronomic notes

Valencia Late is a productive variety, although it shows a slight tendency to alternate harvests. It is somewhat sensitive to greening. It adapts well to all citrus-growing areas, although it is especially recommended in those where the risks of late frosts are not very high. The fruit has good conservation on the tree, although at the end of the harvesting period, the neck of the fruit may turn green. Its post-harvest behavior is favorable, allowing for storage in chambers for summer consumption.