are apples considered a citrus fruit

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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27-02-2025

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Meta Description: Discover the truth about apples and their citrus status! This comprehensive guide explores the botanical differences between apples and citrus fruits, explaining why apples don't belong to the citrus family. Learn about the characteristics that define citrus fruits and explore the fascinating world of fruit classification. (158 characters)

Apples are crisp, juicy, and a common sight in fruit bowls worldwide. But are they actually citrus fruits? The short answer is a resounding no. Understanding why requires a look at the botanical characteristics that define citrus fruits.

What Makes a Citrus Fruit a Citrus Fruit?

Citrus fruits belong to the Rutaceae family, a diverse group including plants like rue and prickly ash. However, it's the specific characteristics of the Citrus genus within this family that truly define citrus fruits. Key features include:

• Botanical Characteristics: Citrus fruits share a unique genetic makeup and specific botanical structures. Their flowers, leaves, and the development of their fruit all contribute to their classification.
• Acidic Taste: The high acidity of citrus fruits, largely due to citric acid, is another key characteristic. This contributes to their characteristic tartness.
• Thick Peel (Exocarp): The rind of citrus fruits is generally thick and contains aromatic oils. This is often quite different from the thinner skins found on other fruits.
• Hesperidium Structure: Botanically, citrus fruits are hesperidia. This refers to a berry with a leathery rind, divided into segments, each containing juice sacs.

Examples of Citrus Fruits:

• Oranges
• Lemons
• Limes
• Grapefruits
• Tangerines
• Pomelos

Why Apples Aren't Citrus Fruits

Apples, on the other hand, belong to the Rosaceae family, the rose family! This family includes a vast array of fruits, flowers, and trees, such as roses, strawberries, raspberries, and almonds. Apples, specifically, are classified as pome fruits.

• Pome Fruit Structure: Pome fruits develop from a flower with multiple carpels (the female reproductive part) that fuse to create a core containing seeds. The fleshy part of the fruit develops from the receptacle surrounding the carpels, which is different from the structure of a hesperidium.
• Less Acidity: While apples are acidic, their acidity levels are significantly lower than those of citrus fruits. This impacts taste and overall flavour profile.
• Thin Skin: Apples possess a thin, relatively delicate skin compared to the thick, leathery rind of citrus fruits.

Common Misconceptions about Apple Classification

The confusion might stem from the shared characteristic of being edible fruits. However, botanical classification goes far beyond simple taste or use.

Conclusion: Apples and Citrus Fruits - A World Apart

Apples and citrus fruits are vastly different, belonging to separate botanical families and possessing distinct structural, chemical, and genetic characteristics. So while both are delicious and nutritious, they are not related in terms of their botanical classification. Apples are pome fruits from the Rosaceae family, while citrus fruits are hesperidia from the Rutaceae family. Remember this next time you enjoy a juicy apple or a zesty orange!