Satsuma tangerine (Citrus unshiu)

Product description

Citrus unshiu are considered a group of mandarin varieties. Genetic analysis showed that Satsuma is a highly related mandarin pomelo hybrid, with 22% of its genome derived from pomelo.

Citrus unshiu is one of the sweetest citrus varieties and is usually pitted. Satsumas are known for their loose skin. the fruit peels very easily. The skin is often smooth to slightly rough with the shape of a medium to small flattened sphere. Satsumas typically have 10 to 12 easily separated segments with hard membranes. The color of the fruit often depends on the climate. Satsumas grown in humid areas may be ripe while the skin is still green, while those grown in areas with cool nighttime temperatures may see a bright reddish-orange skin on top.

Satsumas are cold hardy and when planted in colder locations, the fruit becomes sweeter. A mature satsuma tree can survive at -9 °C (15 °F) or even -11 °C (12 °F) for a few hours. Satsumas rarely have thorns, a quality that also makes them popular.