Citrus reticulata
Fruit & Nuts

Mandarin

Citrus reticulata

Mandarin · Light: Full sun · Water: Moderate. Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.

LightFull sun
WaterModerate
DifficultyModerate
CategoryFruit & Nuts
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Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.

Mandarin — Growing reference

Scientific nameCitrus reticulata
First harvest or flowering (days)1095–2190
Measured fromTransplant
Plant spacing (cm)304.8–548.6
Mature height (cm)243.8–548.6
Mature spread (cm)243.8–487.7
USDA hardiness zones8–11
LightFull sun
WaterModerate
Sowing methodTransplant

Growing directions

Mandarins (including tangerines, clementines, and satsumas) are the most cold-hardy of the common sweet citrus, with satsumas surviving to about 15°F and thriving in zone 8. Most are self-fertile, though some varieties set more fruit with a compatible pollinator nearby. Fruit tends to ripen earlier in the season than oranges — from October through January depending on variety — and the loose peel and sweet-tart flavor make them popular for fresh eating. Avoid overwatering, as mandarins are somewhat drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot in wet soils.

Source and local conditions

Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.

OpenPlantDB · mandarin

Source & verification

OpenPlantDB · CC0

Open reference source ↗