Petitgrain oil is extracted from the foliage of the Bitter Orange tree. The same tree also produces two other types of essential oil, Neroli oil is sourced from its blossoms, and Bitter Orange oil from the rinds.

It originates from southern China, and was brought over to Siciliy by Genovese sailors in the 11th century BCE. The trees were rumored to bring happiness to whoever possessed it, so the Moorish dynasty that reigned at the time decided to plant them all over Spain, particularly Seville. During the Middle Ages it was used for medicinal uses and perfumery.