“Variegated Malta” generally refers to a specific type of variegated sweet orange plant (a cultivar of Citrus sinensis). The “Malta” here usually signifies a sweet orange, particularly popular in India and surrounding regions. The key characteristic is the variegation, which applies to both the foliage and the fruit.

Here’s a detailed description:

1. The Plant (Variegated Malta Orange Tree):

Ornamental Value: The most striking feature of the plant itself is its variegated foliage. The leaves are typically green, but display prominent and often irregular creamy-white or yellowish streaks and patterns. This makes the tree highly ornamental and a popular choice for home gardens, patios, and containers, even before it fruits.
Growth Habit: Like other sweet orange trees, it’s an evergreen shrub or small to medium-sized tree, generally with a compact and bushy form. It can reach heights of 6-10 feet or more, but its compact growth makes it suitable for container gardening.
Flowers: It produces small, fragrant white blossoms, typical of citrus trees, which are attractive to pollinators.
Climate: Thrives in warm, sunny, subtropical to tropical climates. It needs full sun for best growth and fruit production and is sensitive to frost, requiring protection in colder regions.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Propagation: Often propagated by grafting to ensure the variegated characteristics and earlier fruiting.

2. The Fruit (Variegated Malta Orange Fruit):

Appearance (Exterior): This is where the variegation extends to the fruit. The rind of the unripe or developing fruit will often display distinctive green and yellow stripes or mottling. As the fruit matures and ripens, the green areas usually fade, and the entire fruit turns a bright yellow or orange, though some residual variegation or lighter stripes might still be visible. This patterned peel adds to its unique visual appeal.
Appearance (Interior): The flesh inside is typically a pale yellow to orange color, similar to a regular sweet orange. Some variegated sweet oranges might have a slightly pinkish tint to the pulp.
Shape and Size: The fruits are generally round to oval, medium to large in size, consistent with sweet oranges.
Taste and Texture:
- Flavor: The taste is characteristic of a sweet orange. It’s juicy, refreshing, and sweet with a mild tang. The flavor is generally comparable to non-variegated sweet oranges.
- Texture: The pulp is soft, juicy, and segmented, with tiny, edible vesicles (juice sacs). It typically contains a few seeds, though seedless varieties might exist.
Ripeness: The fruit is ready for harvest when it is fully yellow/orange and fragrant.

3. Uses and Benefits:

Culinary Uses:
- Primarily enjoyed fresh, eaten out of hand.
- Excellent for making fresh juice due to its sweet and refreshing nature.
- Can be used in fruit salads, desserts, and as a garnish.
- The zest from the variegated peel can also be used in cooking and baking, providing a unique visual touch.
Ornamental Plant: Its striking variegated leaves and uniquely patterned fruits make it a highly desirable ornamental plant for gardens, patios, and even indoors in large containers in colder climates.
Nutritional Value: Like other sweet oranges, Variegated Malta is rich in:
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that boosts immunity.
- Dietary Fiber: Aids in digestion.
- Antioxidants: Contains flavonoids and other compounds that help protect cells from damage.
- Minerals: Provides some potassium and other essential minerals.

In summary, the “Variegated Malta” offers the best of both worlds: a highly attractive plant with beautifully patterned leaves and fruit, combined with the classic sweet and juicy flavor of a quality sweet orange. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for both aesthetic appeal and delicious fruit from their garden