Citrus reticulata Seeds | Mandarin Orange
LATIN NAME: Citrus reticulata
COMMON NAME: Mandarin
Plant Profile
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) is an evergreen tree in the rue family. It is a tree of open, sunny, deep, rich, moist, well-drained ground. It is the sort of plant that quietly justifies the space it occupies.
Science & Biotechnology
Citrus reticulata sits in the rue family, a group that keeps botanists, horticulturists and plant breeders busy with questions of classification, adaptation and ornamental potential. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Mandarin for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Mandarin is a fine, bright tree of warm garden and study collection. It is a fine, bright tree of open, sunny, deep, rich, moist, well-drained garden. Give young trees warmth and deep, rich, moist bed, and fragrant fruits will come in years to come. Mature plants need little attention in a well-chosen position.
Citrus gives far more than vitamin C: peel flavonoids such as hesperidin and naringin are studied for vascular health, the dried peels, Chen Pi and Qing Pi, are major Chinese digestive herbs, and citrus pectin is a standard soluble fiber ingredient.
Growing from Seed
Raising Mandarin from seed is straightforward. Surface-sow onto a light, well-drained compost, dust over a thin covering, and keep evenly moist and sunny until the seedlings show. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Mandarin repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
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