Citrus 
Flora Frost Citrus reticulata
| Leaf arrangement | spreaded |
| Leaf tip | Blunt/obtuse; Emarginate |
| Fruit shape | Rounded-flattened |
| Leaf margin | Entire |
| Winter hardness | Not hardy (USDA-zone 9,10,11) |
| Fruit color | Orange |
| Leaf, general shape | Elongate; Lanceolate |
| Leaf, scent | Unscented |
| Structure (tissues) | Woody |
| Leaf width | 2 - 3 cm |
| Leaf surface | Dull; Smooth |
| Fruit size | 3,5 - 4 cm |
| Leaf duration | Evergreen |
| Leaf size | 5 - 7,5 cm |
| Plant, growth type | Erect |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
| Leaf colour, pattern | Unicolored |
Citrus reticulata, commonly known as mandarin or mandarin orange, is a small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. This citrus plant belongs to the Rutaceae family and is highly appreciated for its delicious fruits, which are easy to peel and have a sweet, juicy flavor.
One characteristic of Citrus reticulata is its spreaded leaf arrangement. The leaves are elongate and lanceolate in shape, with a width of 2-3 cm and a length of 5-7.5 cm. They have a dull, smooth surface and a dark green color, giving the tree a vibrant appearance.
The leaf margin of Citrus reticulata is entire, meaning it is smooth and without serrations. The leaf tip is blunt or obtuse, sometimes emarginate, adding to its unique shape. Despite its woody structure, the leaves are unscented, distinguishing it from other citrus varieties.
The fruit of Citrus reticulata is rounded-flattened in shape and has a vibrant orange color. It typically measures around 3.5 - 4 cm in size. The aroma and taste of the fruit are highly sought after, making it a popular choice for consumption and culinary purposes.
In terms of growth type, Citrus reticulata is an erect plant, meaning it grows upright rather than trailing or climbing. However, one important factor to note is that it is not frost-tolerant and is considered not hardy in USDA zones 9, 10, and 11. Therefore, it is best suited for regions with warmer climates.
As an evergreen tree, Citrus reticulata retains its leaves throughout the year, providing a lush and green appearance to gardens or landscapes. Its main color is dark green, and the leaves have a unicolored pattern, without any distinctive variegation or markings.
In conclusion, Citrus reticulata possesses several notable characteristics, including its spreaded leaf arrangement, rounded-flattened fruit shape, and unscented leaves. With its vibrant orange fruit and attractive foliage, this evergreen tree adds beauty and flavor to any garden or landscape, provided it is cultivated in the appropriate climate zone.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |