Citrus reticulata (Tangerine)

Tangerines: Bright, Sweet, and Easy to Peel

The tangerine (Citrus reticulata, sometimes called Citrus tangerina) is a small, easy-to-peel citrus fruit known for its vibrant tangerine color, sweet-tart flavor, and juicy flesh. Considered a variety of mandarin orange, the tangerine has long been prized as a snack fruit, salad addition, or a juice ingredient. Its name originates from Tangier, Morocco, where early exports were shipped to Europe and the U.S. Popular for both its taste and nutrition, tangerines are a classic winter citrus and a staple of holiday traditions.

Tangerines belong to the Rutaceae family, which includes other notable citrus such as orange, lemon, grapefruit, pomelo, kumquat, calamansi, tangerine, and clementine.

What is a Tangerine?

Description

Tangerines are small to medium-sized citrus fruits with a flattened, oblate shape and thin, pebbly skin that ranges in tangerine color from bright orange to reddish-orange. The fruit’s rind is loosely attached to the juicy, segmented flesh, making it one of the easiest citrus fruits to peel. The flavor is sweet and slightly tangy, more intense than an orange, and often contains seeds depending on the variety.

This fruit is a parent of the tangelo, a hybrid between a tangerine or mandarin and a grapefruit or pomelo.

Native Range

Tangerines likely originated in Southeast Asia and spread westward via trade routes. The name derives from Tangier, Morocco, where fruits were first shipped to Europe and the United States. They were introduced to Florida in the mid-1800s, where the Dancy tangerine became the first widely grown American variety.

Growth Habit

Tangerine trees are small to medium-sized evergreen citrus trees with slender twigs, lance-shaped glossy leaves, and fragrant white flowers. These trees grow well in warm climates and are often cultivated in orchards or containers. Their growth is moderate, producing fruit abundantly from late fall through winter.

Size

When planted outdoors, tangerine trees typically reach 10–20 feet (3–6 meters) tall with a spread of 6–15 feet (1.8–4.5 meters). Container-grown trees remain smaller, often under 8 feet (2.4 meters). Annual growth is about 1–2 feet (30–60 cm) under optimal conditions.

Flowers

The tree produces small, star-shaped, fragrant white blossoms that attract pollinators and enhance garden aesthetics. These blossoms precede fruiting and are often among the first signs of spring activity on the tree.

Blooming Season

Blooming typically occurs in early to mid-spring, with fruit developing over the summer and maturing between November and April, depending on the variety and location.

Fruits

Tangerines are slightly flattened with loosely attached skin. The flesh is divided into 10–12 segments, rich in juice, and bright orange. Depending on the variety, they may be seedless or contain small cream-colored seeds. Their ease of peeling and sweet flavor make them popular for fresh eating and juicing.

Leaves

Tangerine leaves are bright green, narrow, lance-shaped, glossy, and evergreen, with a smooth surface and pointed tips. The petiole is usually wingless or only slightly winged, and the foliage forms a dense canopy.

Hardiness

Tangerine trees thrive in USDA zones 9–11. In colder regions, they should be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months to protect them from frost.

Uses

• Fresh Eating: Enjoyed out of hand thanks to their juicy segments and easy-to-peel skin.
• Salads: Add sweetness to green, grain, or fruit salads.
• Desserts: Used in cakes, tarts, chocolate-dipped slices, and marmalade.
• Juicing: Used for fresh juice or cocktails like tangerine margaritas.
• Cooking: Adds citrus brightness to poultry, pork, glazes, and sauces.
• Beyond Lemon and Orange: Citrus You’ve Never Heard Of (But Need to Taste)

Toxicity

Tangerine fruit is non-toxic to humans and most pets. However, oils in the peel may cause mild digestive upset or skin sensitivity in cats and dogs. Avoid giving large amounts of peel to pets.

Tangerine Nutrition

Tangerines are low in calories and high in vitamin C and antioxidants. A medium tangerine (88g) contains:

DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Health Benefits of Tangerines

Tangerines are more than a sweet citrus snack—they’re packed with nutrients that support various aspects of health. From boosting immunity to protecting your heart, here’s how tangerines contribute to overall wellness:

How to Enjoy Tangerines

Tangerines are incredibly versatile and can brighten up everything from snacks to main courses. Their sweet-tart flavor and easy-to-peel skin make them a kitchen favorite. Here are some delicious and creative ways to enjoy them:

• Snacking: Peel and eat fresh segments for a quick, vitamin-rich treat—no utensils needed.
• Salads: Add juicy tangerine slices to green salads, grain bowls, or slaws for a burst of citrus sweetness.
• Desserts: Use in cakes, tarts, panna cotta, or chocolate-dipped fruit for a refreshing twist.
• Juices and Smoothies: Squeeze fresh tangerine juice or blend into smoothies for a sweet, tangy flavor boost.
• Cocktails and Mocktails: Mix tangerine juice with sparkling water, mint, or spirits for a vibrant drink.
• Cooking: Pair with poultry, pork, or seafood in marinades, glazes, or stir-fries to add brightness and acidity.
• Zest and Peel: Grate the peel for flavorful zest in baked goods or dry it to add to spice blends and teas.
• Jams and Preserves: Simmer tangerine segments into marmalades or citrus compotes to enjoy all year long.

Clementine vs. Mandarin vs. Tangerine

While these citrus fruits are closely related, each has distinct characteristics in terms of flavor, appearance, and use. Here’s how they compare:

Want more juicy details? Explore our complete Clementine vs. Mandarin vs. Tangerine guide

How to Grow and Care for a Tangerine Tree

Light Requirements

Tangerine trees need full sun to thrive. Ensure they receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors, position near a bright, south-facing window or supplement with grow lights to ensure optimal photosynthesis and fruiting.

Soil Requirements

Plant tangerine trees in well-draining, sandy to loamy soil. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal. Avoid clay-heavy soils that retain too much moisture, as they can cause root rot. Incorporating compost or aged manure improves soil structure and fertility.

Watering

Water young tangerine trees regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mature trees are somewhat drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during dry spells. Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings, and reduce watering during winter dormancy.

Fertilizing

Feed your tree with a balanced citrus fertilizer containing nitrogen, magnesium, and micronutrients. Apply 2–3 times a year: in early spring, midsummer, and early fall. For container-grown trees, use a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

Pruning

Prune tangerine trees in late winter or after fruiting to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Thin the canopy for better airflow and sunlight penetration. Remove root suckers and water sprouts regularly.

Mulching

Apply a 2–3 inch (5–7 cm) layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid fungal diseases and rot.

Container Growing

Tangerine trees adapt well to containers, especially in colder zones. Use a large pot with drainage holes and a high-quality citrus potting mix. Repot every 2–3 years and overwinter indoors if grown outside USDA zones 9–11.

How to Grow Citrus Indoors: From Fragrant Blooms to Homegrown Fruit

How to Harvest Tangerines

When to Harvest

Tangerines are typically harvested between late fall and early spring, depending on the cultivar and region. While peel color can be an indicator, rely more on feel, scent, and taste to determine ripeness.

• Color: Deep orange skin, sometimes with a reddish hue.
• Firmness: Slight give when gently squeezed, but not mushy.
• Weight: Feels heavy for its size, indicating high juice content.
• Aroma: Strong citrus fragrance near the stem end.
• Taste: Taste one fruit—if it’s sweet and full-flavored, the rest are likely ready.

How to Harvest

• Use clippers or scissors: Snip fruit with a small stem attached to avoid skin tearing.
• Twist gently: If picking by hand, twist until the fruit detaches cleanly.
• Pick only ripe fruit: Tangerines do not ripen after harvest.
• Harvest regularly: Ripe tangerines can remain on the tree for a few weeks, but harvest promptly for best flavor and texture.

How to Propagate Tangerine Trees

Propagation by Seeds

• Extract seeds from a ripe tangerine and rinse thoroughly.
• Dry seeds for 24 hours, then plant 1/2 inch deep in moist seed-starting mix.
• Place in a warm, sunny spot and keep soil consistently moist.
• Germination occurs in 2–4 weeks.
• Note: seed-grown trees may not produce fruit true to type and take 5+ years to mature.

Propagation by Grafting

• Tangerines are typically grafted onto rootstocks like trifoliate orange for vigor and disease resistance.
• Use techniques such as T-budding or cleft grafting in spring or early summer.
• Grafted trees bear fruit in 2–3 years and retain the desired traits of the parent variety.

Tips for Success

• Always use disease-free scion wood and sterile tools to reduce infection risks.
• Protect young grafted trees from harsh sun and frost.
• Label grafted trees clearly to track cultivar and rootstock combinations.

Common Pests and Diseases of Tangerines

While generally robust, tangerine trees are susceptible to a few key pests and diseases, especially in warm or humid climates. Prevention and early detection are essential.

Common Pests

Aphids: These small sap-sucking insects can deform new leaves and attract sooty mold. Control with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Leaf Miners: Larvae create trails in leaves. Remove affected foliage and apply neem oil as a preventive measure.

Spider Mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves. Increase humidity and spray with insecticidal soap if needed.

Scale Insects: Hard-shelled pests that adhere to bark and stems. Use horticultural oil to smother them.

Whiteflies: Sap-sucking pests found on leaf undersides. Control with sticky traps and regular monitoring.

Common Diseases

Alternaria Brown Spot: Causes dark lesions on leaves and fruit. Use resistant varieties and copper fungicides.

Greasy Spot: Yellow to brown spots on leaves. Improve air flow and apply copper-based fungicides preventively.

Phytophthora Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Prevent with well-draining soil and proper irrigation.

Citrus Canker: Highly contagious bacterial disease. Remove infected branches and disinfect tools. Severe cases may require tree removal.

Prevention Tips

• Choose disease-resistant cultivars when possible.
• Prune to maintain airflow and remove dead or infected material.
• Avoid overhead watering and keep the base clear of fallen debris.
• Inspect regularly and act at the first sign of pest or disease symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tangerines

Can dogs eat tangerines?

Dogs can eat tangerines in small amounts. The fruit is not toxic, but due to its natural sugar and acidity, it should only be given occasionally as a treat. Always remove seeds and peel, and avoid overfeeding to prevent digestive upset.

How many calories are in a tangerine?

A medium tangerine (about 88 grams) contains approximately 47 calories. It’s a low-calorie snack rich in vitamin C and water, making it a healthy and hydrating choice.

Are tangerines good for you?

Yes, tangerines are packed with health benefits. They are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Regular consumption may support immunity, heart health, skin vitality, and digestion while keeping calorie intake low.

Are Cuties tangerines?

Cuties are not true tangerines but are branded seedless mandarins. Depending on the season, Cuties may be clementines (Citrus × clementina) or Murcott mandarins, both of which share characteristics with tangerines like easy peeling and sweet flavor.