Guide: Orange blossom
Azahar is the Spanish name for the white blossom of citrus trees, above all orange and lemon. It is known less for its colour than for its scent: for a few weeks in spring it perfumes whole orchards and streets. In Spain it can be enjoyed in the large orange groves and in cities with orange trees along the streets, such as Seville.
When
The main flowering usually runs from mid-March into April. It arrives earlier in the warmest, low-lying areas and a little later in cooler ones, and a mild end of winter brings it forward. Some citrus, such as certain lemon trees, can produce scattered flowers at other times of year.
Where
The large orange groves are in the Valencia region, in Andalusia, especially the Guadalquivir valley, and in Murcia. The Castellón coast is called the Costa del Azahar precisely because of its orange trees. In Seville, the bitter orange trees lining streets and squares fill the city with the scent of orange blossom.
How to tell the moment
At bud stage clusters of round white buds appear among the leaves. With the first flowers a few open and the scent begins to be noticeable. At full bloom the tree is dotted with white, though still green with leaves, and the scent is strong. At the end the petals drop and small green fruits remain.
How to see it
Orange groves are private, working farms: do not go in or cut branches. In towns the orange trees belong to everyone: do not pull off flowers or branches. If you visit growing areas, park without blocking tracks. The scent is best enjoyed strolling unhurriedly through tree-lined streets and squares; in Seville it often coincides with Holy Week, when the city is very crowded.
Did you know?
The word azahar comes from Andalusi Arabic, and ultimately from classical Arabic zahr, meaning flowers. The Royal Spanish Academy's dictionary defines it as a white flower, above all that of the orange, lemon and citron trees.
Where we follow it
Usual season: dates from past years, for guidance only. Each year it comes earlier or later depending on the weather.
Tell me when it blooms: orange blossom
We will email you when flowering starts. One email per season, no advertising.
Sources: dle.rae.es · rae.es