Oranges with “Big Navel” and “Small Navel” Are Different

1. Understanding the Navel Orange: What is a Navel?
What is a Navel Orange?
A navel orange is a type of sweet orange distinguished by a small, second fruit growing at the apex, which looks like a human navel (belly button). This secondary fruit causes the characteristic “navel” formation.

The navel is actually a “parasitic fruit,” a tiny undeveloped twin orange that never grows fully but leaves the indentation on the main fruit.

How Does Navel Size Vary?
The size of the navel varies by orange variety, growing conditions, and maturity stage. Some navels are tiny, almost unnoticeable, while others are large and prominent.

Big navel oranges have a wide, deep, and clearly visible navel.
Small navel oranges have a smaller, shallow, or tight navel.
2. Varieties of Navel Oranges: Big Navel vs. Small Navel
Big Navel Oranges
Examples:
Washington Navel (classic large-navel orange)
Bahia Navel (Brazilian variety with a prominent navel)
Characteristics:

Thicker peel
Larger size on average
Often seedless
Bright orange color with smooth skin
Juicy with sweet, balanced flavor
Uses:

Best for eating fresh
Juice and zest (though peel is thicker)
Decor and gifting because of striking appearance
Small Navel Oranges
Examples:

Lane Late Navel (smaller navel)
Valencia Navel (smaller and sometimes seedier)
Characteristics:

Thinner peel, easier to peel
Smaller or medium size
Sometimes have seeds
Flavor can range from sweet-tart to mildly sweet
Skin sometimes less bright orange, with more texture
Uses:

Eating fresh and snacking
Salads and cooking (because thinner peel makes them easier to segment)
Juice, but less commonly for commercial juicing than big navel varieties

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