Citrus reticulata aka Tangerine

Taxonomy

Genus Citrus Family Rutaceae Order Sapindales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
The mandarin orange, also known as mandarin or mandarine, is a small citrus tree fruit that is usually eaten plain or in fruit salads. It is a mid-sized tree that typically does not exceed 4 meters in height and has small, shiny green leaves and flowers that grow singly or in small groups. Mandarins are smaller and oblate, unlike the spherical common oranges, and the taste is considered sweeter and stronger than the common orange. A ripe mandarin is firm to slightly soft, heavy for its size, and pebbly-skinned. The peel is thin and loose, with little white mesocarp, so they are usually easier to peel and to split into segments. Hybrids usually have these traits to a lesser degree. The mandarin is tender and is damaged easily by cold, so it can be grown in tropical and subtropical areas, and in cooler climates, potted plants are brought indoors during the winter period. According to genetic studies, the mandarin was one of the original citrus species and is the ancestor of many hybrid citrus cultivars. With the citron and pomelo, it is the ancestor of the most commercially important hybrids, such as sweet and sour oranges, grapefruit, and many lemons and limes. The mandarin has also been hybridized with other citrus species, such as the desert lime and the kumquat. Though the ancestral mandarin was bitter, most commercial mandarin strains derive from hybridization with pomelo, which gives them a sweet fruit. Mandarin oranges are relatively rare houseplants that are easy to grow and need regular watering to thrive. They do best in long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. Tangerines are a group of orange-colored citrus fruit consisting of hybrids of mandarin orange with some pomelo contribution.

Common names

Tangerine, Clementine, Mandarin Orange, Mandarin

How to care for Tangerine

Difficulty

Tangerine requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Tangerine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Tangerine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Tangerine requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Tangerine will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

The Tangerine does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The growth of Tangerine is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Tangerine’s native range is Southeast Asia and Australia.

More info:
Wikipedia

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More Species in Citrus Genus

Citrus latifolia Bearss Lime

Citrus limon Lemon

Citrus taitensis Rough Lemon

Citrus reticulata Tangerine

Citrus medica Lemon

Citrus trifoliata Hardy Orange

Citrus microcarpa Calamondin

Citrus aurantium Bitter Orange

Citrus japonica Kumquat

Citrus aurantiifolia Lime