The Atlas Obscura Podcast The Ark of Citrus (Classic)
Aug 8, 2025
Discover the fascinating diversity of citrus fruits beyond just navel oranges. Learn about Eliza Tibbetts and her role in California's citrus industry. Explore the Givadon Citrus Variety Collection with over 1,050 unique varieties. Uncover the impact of human cultivation on citrus hybrids and their market appeal. Dive into the challenges of citrus cultivation, including efforts to combat the citrus greening disease. Celebrate the rich history and conservation of these fragrant fruits that have shaped our culinary landscape.
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Eliza's Navel Orange Legacy
- Eliza Tibbetts planted orange buds sent from Brazil in California and nurtured them despite challenges like a cow trampling one tree.
- Her thriving trees became the Washington Naval Orange, sparking a huge orange growing boom in California.
Noah's Ark of Citrus
- The Givadon Citrus Variety Collection preserves 1,050 types of citrus with two trees each across 20 acres.
- This collection acts like a citrus Noah’s Ark, protecting the vast diversity of citrus fruits.
Citrus as Modified Berries
- Citrus fruits are modified berries called hesperidia, which have a leathery rind unlike typical berries.
- This botanical insight expands understanding of what citrus really is beyond just familiar fruits like oranges and lemons.