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Description
Citrus Reticulata, commonly known as Mandarin or Tangerine, is a small evergreen tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to China and Southeast Asia but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including the United States, Spain, and Italy. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a dense canopy of glossy green leaves.Citrus Reticulata is prized for its sweet and juicy fruit, which is easy to peel and has a distinctive aroma. The fruit is smaller than an orange and has a flattened shape with a slightly protruding navel at the base. The flesh is usually segmented and contains seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Citrus |
| Species | Citrus reticulata |
Appearance
Citrus Reticulata has a dense canopy of glossy green leaves that can grow up to 4 inches long. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall but is often pruned to maintain a smaller size for easier harvesting. The fruit is usually ripe in late fall or early winter and is smaller than an orange. It has a flattened shape with a slightly protruding navel at the base. The skin is thin and easy to peel, and the flesh is usually segmented and contains seeds. The fruit has a sweet and juicy flavor with a distinctive aroma.
Care Guide
Citrus Reticulata requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Fertilize the tree every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Citrus Reticulata is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including citrus leaf miner, aphids, spider mites, and citrus greening disease. Citrus leaf miner can cause distorted and curled leaves, while aphids and spider mites can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Citrus greening disease is a bacterial infection that can cause the fruit to become misshapen and bitter. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Citrus Reticulata is native to China and Southeast Asia but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including the United States, Spain, and Italy. It prefers warm and humid climates with mild winters and can tolerate a wide range of soils.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I know when the fruit is ripe?
A: The fruit should be fully colored and slightly soft to the touch.
Q: Can I grow Citrus Reticulata in a container?
A: Yes, Citrus Reticulata can be grown in a container but will require regular pruning to keep it small.
Q: How often should I water my Citrus Reticulata tree?
A: Water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How do I prevent citrus greening disease?
A: Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent citrus greening disease.
Related Plants
- Citrus sinensis
- Citrus limon
- Citrus aurantium
- Citrus paradisi
References
- “Mandarin Orange – Citrus reticulata.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1325
- “Citrus reticulata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287644&isprofile=0&
- “Tangerine – Citrus reticulata.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. https://ucanr.edu/sites/citrusfieldday/files/48401.pdf
