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Variety & Rootstock Reference
A grower's catalog of citrus offerings
Each variety below is documented with verified yield data, fruit characteristics, harvest windows, and growing notes — sourced from UC Riverside Citrus Variety Collection, U.S. plant patents, and university research. Tap any variety to view its complete reference sheet with full supporting documentation.
For current availability and pricing on any variety listed, please contact M&G Nursery directly at (559) 397-1401 or mgfarmsinc@gmail.com — or
request a quote online.
Mandarins
Early Season
Clementine Mandarin
Citrus clementina
The variety behind Cuties® and Halos® bags. Multiple selections: Nules, Algerian, Fina. Early-mid season harvest.
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Early Season
Owari Satsuma
Citrus unshiu
Cold-hardy, early-season Japanese mandarin. Virtually seedless, zipper-skin peel, mid-November harvest.
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Mid Season
Page Mandarin
Citrus reticulata hybrid
USDA tangelo hybrid (Minneola × Clementine). Deep orange, rich-sweet, easy-peel. A reliable, well-known variety throughout the Central Valley.
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Mid Season
DaisySL Seedless Mandarin
Citrus reticulata
Seedless mid-season mandarin. Deep orange, rich flavor, high juice content. UC Riverside release 2009.
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Mid–Late Season
Tango Mandarin
Citrus reticulata
Virtually seedless, easy-peel mandarin. Patent expired 2025 — now royalty-free for U.S. growers. The #1 mandarin variety in California.
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Mid–Late Season
Gold Nugget Mandarin
Citrus reticulata hybrid
UC Riverside late-season mandarin. Seedless, exceptionally sweet, holds well on tree. C-35 preferred rootstock.
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Mid–Late Season
Shiranui Mandarin
Citrus reticulata hybrid
Large, easy-peel, exceptionally sweet mandarin with a distinctive top-knot. High-value fresh market.
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Mid–Late Season
W. Murcott Afourer
Citrus reticulata
The parent of Tango — late-season mandarin originally from Morocco. Excellent quality but seedy if cross-pollinated.
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Navels
Early Season
Fukumoto Navel
Citrus sinensis
Early-season navel with intense red-orange color. Sweet, low acid. Premium pricing during October–November window.
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Mid Season
Parent Washington Navel
Citrus sinensis
The original California navel — seedless, easy-peel, the industry standard since 1873. Heritage Riverside variety.
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Mid Season
Atwood Navel
Citrus sinensis
Early-maturing California navel. Reliable early-season production for premium November pricing.
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🍊
Mid Season
Fisher Navel
Citrus sinensis
Early-to-mid season navel selection. Productive trees with well-colored, easy-peeling fruit.
🍊
Mid Season
Gillette Navel
Citrus sinensis
Mid-season navel. Smooth rind, sweet flavor, dependable cropping.
Mid Season
Cara Cara Navel
Citrus sinensis
Pink-fleshed navel with berry undertones. Discovered as a spontaneous bud sport of Washington at Hacienda Cara Cara, Venezuela.
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🍊
Late Season
Autumn Gold Navel
Citrus sinensis
Late-season navel that extends the fresh navel window into spring.
Late Season
Lane Late Navel
Citrus sinensis
Australian late navel that pioneered the late-season market. Industry standard for spring navel harvests.
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Valencias
Olinda Valencia
Citrus sinensis
Late-season juice orange — the California Valencia standard. Extended harvest window through summer.
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🍊
Cutter Valencia
Citrus sinensis
Nucellar Valencia selection. Vigorous, productive, juicy late-season fruit.
Midknight Valencia
Citrus sinensis
South African Valencia — larger fruit, virtually seedless, slightly earlier maturity. Premium juice variety.
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Delta Valencia
Citrus sinensis
Early-maturing Valencia from South Africa. Seedless, smooth-rinded. Extended harvest into late summer.
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Lemons
Lisbon 8A Lemon
Citrus limon
Vigorous, true-to-type Lisbon selection. Heavy producer of high-quality lemons.
Allen Eureka Lemon
Citrus limon
Eureka-type lemon. Nearly thornless, classic lemon quality, repeat bloom.
Limes
Bearss Persian Lime
Citrus × latifolia
Commercial lime standard. Larger than Mexican lime, seedless, cold-hardy. Discovered at Bearss farm Porterville 1895.
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Mexican (Key) Lime
Citrus × aurantiifolia
True lime — small, intensely aromatic, classic key lime pie variety. Frost-sensitive but unmatched flavor.
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Grapefruit
Rio Red Grapefruit
Citrus × paradisi
Deep red flesh, sweeter than traditional grapefruit. Released 1988 from Ruby Red parent. Texas Rio Grande Valley standard.
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Star Ruby Grapefruit
Citrus × paradisi
Released 1970 in Texas. Deepest red flesh among grapefruit varieties. Smaller, more intensely colored than Rio Red.
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🍊
Flame Grapefruit
Citrus paradisi
Red-fleshed grapefruit. Sweet, low-seed, deep interior color.
Pummelos
Chandler Pummelo
Citrus maxima
UC Riverside pummelo — pink flesh, large 2–4 lb fruits, sweet without grapefruit bitterness. November–June harvest.
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Specialty
Australian Finger Lime
Citrus australasica
"Citrus caviar" — pearl-like vesicles prized by chefs. Niche specialty market with premium pricing.
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Buddha's Hand Citron
Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis
Fingered citron — fragrant peel, no juice/pulp. Ornamental and culinary specialty. Asian heritage symbol.
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Nagami & Meiwa Kumquat
Fortunella spp.
Small fruits eaten whole — peel and all. Two selections: Nagami (tart) and Meiwa (sweet throughout).
View details →
Rootstock Guide
🌱
Rootstock Reference Guide
Carrizo · C35 · Rich 16 · Volkameriana · Rubidoux · Macrophylla
Compare all M&G rootstock offerings — soil compatibility, disease tolerance, vigor, salt tolerance, and which rootstock fits your conditions.
Open guide →
Tango Mandarin
Citrus reticulata
|
UC Riverside Release
|
Mid–Late Season
|
Patent Expired 2025 — Royalty-Free

Whole fruit

Cross section
Late Jan – Apr
HARVEST WINDOW
22 – 222 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
<1 seed/fruit
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: 59 mm (2.32") diameter, 48 mm height
- Weight: ~90 g (3.2 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Deeply oblate, no neck
- Rind color: Deep orange (RHS N25A) — very smooth
- Flesh color: Deep orange-red, finely textured
- Juice content: ~50% — abundant and juicy
- Flavor: Rich, sweet, distinctive
- Segments: 9–10 per fruit
- Seeds: <1 per fruit (0.22 avg) even in mixed plantings
- Peel: Easy to peel; thin rind (~3.0 mm)
- Brix: 12.5% avg at maturity, ~14.4% by April
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures late January in California's San Joaquin Valley
- Peak harvest: February through March
- Fruit holds quality on-tree through April
- Storage: excellent at 5.6°C for up to 60 days
- Production begins year 2 — one year ahead of most mandarins
Yield Performance
- Year 2 trees: 10–26 kg (22–57 lbs) per tree
- Year 3 trees: 33–58 kg (73–128 lbs) per tree
- Mature tree range: 90–101 kg (198–222 lbs) in peak years
- Alternate bearing: Low — less than other late mandarins
- Planting density: 150–250 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 2 (light)~25 bins~$10,000
Year 3 (developing)~110 bins~$44,000
Mature, average~220 bins~$88,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Developed at UC Riverside (released 2006) from irradiated W. Murcott budwood
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 citrange — excellent compatibility
- USDA Zones: 9–11; full sun, well-drained soil
- Growth habit: Upright when young → spherical at maturity
- Mature tree: ~3.7 m tall × 3.8 m wide
- Sterile pollen: Won't seed neighboring blocks
Sources:
Roose & Williams (2007). U.S. Plant Patent PP17863 — 'Tango' Mandarin.
Givaudan Citrus Variety Collection, UC Riverside: citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc4183
UCR News (Jan 2026): "Tango's sweet legacy lives on"
Shiranui Mandarin
Citrus reticulata hybrid
|
Ponkan × Kiyomi
|
Japanese Origin 1972
|
Premium Specialty Market

Whole fruit

Cross section
30 – 80 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Large — 8–10 cm (3.1–3.9") diameter
- Weight: ~280–340 g (10–12 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Oblate with distinctive protruding "topknot"
- Rind color: Deep orange-yellow, thick but loose-fitting
- Flesh color: Deep orange, tender-crisp texture
- Juice content: High — succulent and aqueous
- Flavor: Exceptionally sweet (13–18° Brix)
- Acidity: Below 1% citric acid
- Seeds: Seedless when isolated; seedy if cross-pollinated
- Peel: Very easy to peel — rind separates loosely from flesh
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures January through April
- Peak quality typically February through March
- Limited commercial season — January through April only
- Fruit develops sweetness in storage (post-harvest hold-out)
- Cold-hardy to approximately 25°F
Yield Performance
- Mature tree range: 30+ lbs per tree (14+ kg)
- Premium pricing: Premium fresh-market Shiranui commands $4–8/lb retail vs. $1–2/lb for standard mandarins
- Bearing age: 1–2 years after planting (precocious)
- Production: Self-fertile, moderate productivity
- Tree size: 4–8 ft mature — compact
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 3 (light)~12 bins~$10,800
Year 5 (developing)~45 bins~$40,500
Mature, average~80 bins~$72,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Hybrid of Ponkan tangerine × Kiyomi tangor (Japan 1970s)
- Officially released in Japan as Shiranui; also known as Dekopon
- Imported to U.S. by Brad Stark Jr. in 1998, processed through CCPP at UCR
- Rootstock: X-639, Carrizo, or C35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 9–11 (frost-sensitive below 25°F)
- Isolation required: Seeds develop if cross-pollinated by other citrus
- Grown to high fresh-market quality standards — a premium specialty mandarin
Sources:
Givaudan Citrus Variety Collection, UC Riverside (CRC 4249): citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc4249
Specialty Produce — Shiranui / Dekopon production records
Karp, David. Los Angeles Times (2011). Shiranui import history
DaisySL Seedless Mandarin
Citrus reticulata
|
UC Riverside Release
|
Mid-Season Excellence

Whole fruit

Cross section
70 – 170 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
~2.2 seeds/fruit
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 68 mm (2.7") diameter
- Weight: Approx. 135 g (4.8 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Slightly obconate (slightly tapered)
- Rind color: Very deep orange — extremely smooth texture
- Flesh color: Deep orange, finely textured
- Juice content: 47% — rich and abundant
- Flavor: Rich, sweet, and highly distinctive
- Segments: 10–11 per fruit
- Seeds: ~2.2 per fruit (near-seedless) even in mixed plantings
- Peel: Moderately easy to peel; thin rind
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures mid-December in California's San Joaquin Valley
- Peak harvest: early January through early February
- Fruit holds quality on-tree through February
- Full commercial production begins in year 3
Yield Performance
- Year 4 average: 60–106 lbs/tree (27–48 kg) across 4 trial sites
- Mature tree range: 70–170 lbs/tree (32–77 kg)
- Alternate bearing: Manageable with fruit thinning
- Planting density: 150–250 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Low year (off-year)~78 bins~$31,200
Average year~133 bins~$53,200
Strong year~189 bins~$75,600
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Developed at UC Riverside (released 2009) from irradiated Daisy bud
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 citrange — standard mandarin practices
- USDA Zones: 9–11; full sun, well-drained soil
- Growth habit: Spreading; develops spherical canopy at maturity
Sources:
Roose & Williams (2010). U.S. Plant Patent PP22096 — 'DaisySL'.
Givaudan Citrus Variety Collection, UC Riverside: citrusvariety.ucr.edu/daisysl-mandarin
UC Fruit & Nut Research Center: fruitsandnuts.ucanr.edu
W. Murcott Afourer
Citrus reticulata
|
Morocco origin via Stark (1985)
|
Late Season
|
Self-Incompatible

Whole fruit

Cross section
Late Jan – Mar
HARVEST WINDOW
0 or 10–20 seeds
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium — 58 mm (2.3") diameter
- Weight: ~91 g (3.2 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Oblate, flattened on both ends
- Rind color: Slightly orange, thin, smooth
- Flesh color: Orange, juicy
- Brix: 12–14% at maturity
- Seeds: Seedless when isolated; 10–20 seeds if cross-pollinated
- Peel: Very easy to peel
- Flavor: Rich, sweet — exceptional quality
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures late January through March
- Holds fruit quality on tree for extended period
- Strong pollinizer — causes seeds in Clementine plantings nearby
- Production begins year 2–3
Yield Performance
- Trial data: 100 kg+ per mature tree (220+ lbs)
- Alternate bearing: Little alternate bearing — consistent annual yields
- Self-incompatible: Requires isolation OR Tango replacement for seedless fruit
- Planting density: 170 trees/acre at 14' × 18' spacing
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 3 (developing)~80 bins~$32,000
Mature, average~180 bins~$72,000
Mature, strong~245 bins~$98,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Imported as buds in 1985 from Morocco by Sunkist
- Identical to Afourer and Nadorcott (Morocco origins)
- Tango is the irradiated seedless version — superior for mixed plantings
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Tree size: moderate, upright growth habit
- Important: Cannot be planted near Clementines (causes seediness)
Sources:
UC Riverside Citrus Variety Collection — W. Murcott Afourer
UCANR Cost Study (2004): Ventura County Mandarin Production
Roose & Williams (2007) — Tango Patent PP17863 (parent material)
Owari Satsuma
Citrus unshiu
|
Japan origin, 16th century
|
Cold-Hardy
|
Early Season

Whole fruit

Cross section
Late Nov – Jan
HARVEST WINDOW
~100–200 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Small to medium, 50–70 mm (2–2.7") diameter
- Weight: ~85–135 g (3–4.8 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Oblate, slightly flattened
- Rind color: Bright orange, thin, slightly loose
- Flesh color: Orange, tender, juicy
- Flavor: Sweet, mild — classic mandarin
- Seeds: Seedless (genetically female-sterile)
- Peel: Very easy — distinctive "zipper skin"
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures late November through January
- One of the earliest-maturing mandarins
- Cold-hardy — withstands temperatures to ~15°F
- Production begins year 2–3
Yield Performance
- Mature production: Up to 200 lbs per tree in optimal conditions
- Cold-hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zone 8b (~15°F)
- Tree habit: Small, spreading — somewhat drooping
- Planting density: 150–200 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~60 bins~$24,000
Mature, average~150 bins~$60,000
Mature, strong~220 bins~$88,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Japan origin — over 700 years of cultivation
- Frost selection at UCR — virus-free, commercially certified
- Rootstock: Trifoliate, Carrizo, or C35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 8b–11 (one of the most cold-hardy citrus)
- Tree size: Compact, spreading habit
- Drought-tolerant: Tree (not fruit) handles dry periods well
- Standard variety for canned mandarin orange production
Sources:
Frost Owari Satsuma — UCR Citrus Variety Collection
UC ANR Cooperative Extension — Cold-Hardy Citrus Production
S & J Mandarin Grove — California commercial Owari production
Clementine Mandarin
Citrus clementina
|
Multiple selections available
|
Self-incompatible
|
Premium Bag Market

Whole fruit

Cross section
~150–250 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
0 or 5–10 seeds
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Small — 50–60 mm (2–2.4") diameter
- Weight: ~70–100 g (2.5–3.5 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Oblate, slightly flattened
- Rind color: Deep orange, glossy, thin
- Flesh color: Orange, juicy
- Brix: 11–14% at maturity
- Seeds: Seedless when isolated; 5–10 seeds if cross-pollinated
- Peel: Very easy — clean separation
- Flavor: Sweet-tart, aromatic
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures October through January
- Earlier than W. Murcott, Tango, Shiranui
- Multiple selections extend the harvest window
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Selections available: Nules, Algerian, Fina, Clemenules, Caffin
- Mature production: 150–250 lbs per tree under good management
- Self-incompatible: Requires isolation OR controlled pollinizer
- Bagged market: Sold under Cuties®, Halos®, Wonderful brand names
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 3 (developing)~70 bins~$28,000
Mature, average~160 bins~$64,000
Mature, strong~230 bins~$92,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Subgroup with multiple commercial selections
- Nules is the most-planted Clementine in California
- Rootstock: Carrizo, C35, or Macrophylla
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Self-incompatible: Becomes seedy if cross-pollinated
- Caution: Adjacent W. Murcott or Minneola will cause seeds
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Clementine Mandarins (14 selections)
UC ANR — Mandarin Production Guide (Chao & Lovatt)
Topics in Subtropics Newsletter (UC ANR)
Gold Nugget Mandarin
Citrus reticulata hybrid
|
UC Riverside Release
|
Late Season
|
Genetically Seedless

Whole fruit

Cross section
~100–200 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 68 mm (2.68") diameter
- Weight: ~108 g (3.8 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Slightly flattened, little to no neck
- Rind color: Orange, slightly bumpy texture
- Flesh color: Bright orange, finely textured
- Juice content: ~50% — high juice
- Brix: Very high — exceptionally sweet
- Seeds: Seedless even in mixed plantings
- Peel: Moderately easy to peel
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures March through April
- Holds exceptionally well on the tree through summer
- Summer-harvested fruit retains quality
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Parent cross: Wilking × Kincy mandarin (UCR 1950s)
- Selected: 1975 by D.K. Soost & J.W. Cameron
- Released: VI 422 (virus-free) at Lindcove, 1986
- Alternate bearing: Moderate — manageable with pruning
- Planting density: 150–200 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~70 bins~$28,000
Mature, average~160 bins~$64,000
Mature, peak~220 bins~$88,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Developed at UC Riverside in 1950s; selected 1975
- Parent cross: Wilking × Kincy mandarin
- Preferred rootstock: C-35 citrange (moderates tree size, resists root disease)
- Alternative rootstock: Rich 16-6 trifoliate
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Late-hanging fruit fills a profitable market gap (March–June)
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection: citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc3913
UCANR Subtropical Fruit Crops — Gold Nugget Mandarin
UCR Plant Biology Department — Gold Nugget Profile
Page Mandarin
Citrus reticulata hybrid
|
USDA 1942 Release
|
Early-Mid Season
|
Minneola × Clementine

Whole fruit

Cross section
~150–250 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium, broadly oblate to nearly round
- Shape: Evenly rounded apex, no neck
- Rind color: Reddish-orange at maturity
- Rind texture: Medium-thin, leathery, smooth to moderately pebbled
- Flesh color: Deep orange
- Juice content: Juicy, tender
- Flavor: Rich and sweet
- Segments: About 10, easily separated
- Peel: Easily peeled despite moderate adherence
- Seeds: Moderately numerous when cross-pollinated
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures mid-January through March in California
- Early-to-mid season — colors and ripens ahead of many mandarins
- Holds reasonably well on the tree through the window
- Production begins year 3–4
Yield Performance
- Parent cross: Minneola tangelo × Clementine mandarin
- Bred by: Gardner & Bellows, USDA, 1942
- Classification: Released as an orange; technically a tangelo (¾ mandarin, ¼ grapefruit)
- Pollination: Cross-pollination recommended for heavy set
- Tree habit: Moderately vigorous, nearly thornless, productive
- Planting density: 150–200 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~80 bins~$32,000
Mature, average~170 bins~$68,000
Mature, peak~240 bins~$96,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Developed by USDA (Gardner & Bellows) in 1942
- Parent cross: Minneola tangelo × Clementine mandarin
- *Seediness: like Clementine, fruit is only seedless when grown in isolation; near other citrus it sets seeds
- Compatible rootstocks: Carrizo citrange, C-35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Branches spread under the weight of fruit — may need support in heavy years
- A long-established, widely-recognized variety in the San Joaquin Valley
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection: citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc3616
Friend's Ranches — California Growing Seasons Chart
USDA citrus breeding records (Gardner & Bellows, 1942)
Parent Washington Navel
Citrus sinensis
|
Bahia, Brazil origin (1820)
|
California since 1873
|
Industry Standard

Whole fruit

Cross section
~200–400 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 70–85 mm (2.7–3.3") diameter
- Weight: ~190–250 g (6.7–8.8 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to slightly oval with characteristic navel
- Rind color: Bright orange, moderately thick, easy to peel
- Flesh color: Deep orange, segments separate easily
- Juice content: ~50%
- Brix: 11–13% at maturity
- Seeds: Seedless
- Peel: Easy to peel — classic navel
- Flavor: Excellent — the standard against which navels are measured
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures November through February
- Holds on the tree for 3–4 months
- Tends to granulate if planted on vigorous rootstock or harvested late
- Production typically begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Mature production: 200–400+ lbs per tree under good management
- Planting density: 100–145 trees/acre typical commercial
- Tree habit: Vigorous, spreading
- Industry standard: The benchmark variety for California navels
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~140 bins~$56,000
Mature, average~290 bins~$116,000
Mature, strong~445 bins~$178,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Imported to California in 1873 from Bahia, Brazil (originally Selecta Navel)
- Frost selection at UCR is the virus-free commercial standard
- Rootstock: Carrizo, C35, or Trifoliate — avoid overly vigorous rootstocks
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Granulation risk: Late-harvested fruit can become dry/granulated
- The variety that built the California citrus industry
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Frost Washington Navel
Hilgardia — California Citrus History (Reuther et al)
UC ANR — Navel Orange Production Guide
Fukumoto Navel
Citrus sinensis
|
Japan origin
|
Early Season
|
Premium Color

Whole fruit

Cross section
~150–250 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium, 65–75 mm (2.6–3") diameter
- Weight: ~180–230 g (6.3–8.1 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to slightly oblate with prominent navel
- Rind color: Intense red-orange — earlier color than other early navels
- Flesh color: Deep orange
- Juice content: ~50%
- Brix: 11–12% at early harvest
- Seeds: Seedless
- Peel: Easy to peel
- Flavor: Sweet, low acid — accessible early-season fruit
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures end of October through early November
- Earlier than Washington and most other navels
- May lack full orange peel color at harvest (eats sweet but looks early)
- Captures the premium early-season market window
Yield Performance
- Arizona trials: Consistently lower yield than other early navels
- Trade-off: Lower yield offset by early-window premium pricing
- Tree habit: Moderate vigor
- Planting density: 120–170 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~95 bins~$47,500
Mature, average~190 bins~$95,000
Mature, strong~275 bins~$137,500
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Japan origin — Fukumoto navel discovery
- Available as CRC 3903 and CRC 4283 at UCR
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Yield trade-off: Lower production than late navels, but premium pricing window
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Fukumoto Navel CRC 3903, CRC 4283
Arizona Department of Agriculture — Navel Cultivar Trials 2007–08, 2008–09
UC ANR Cooperative Extension — Low Desert Citrus Varieties
Cara Cara Navel
Citrus sinensis
|
Venezuela origin (1976)
|
Pink Flesh — Lycopene
|
Mid Season

Whole fruit

Cross section
~200–350 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
7–10 seeds/fruit
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 75–85 mm (3–3.3") diameter
- Weight: ~200–260 g (7–9.2 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to slightly oblong with prominent navel
- Rind color: Standard orange — looks like Washington externally
- Flesh color: Pink to salmon-red (from lycopene, not anthocyanin)
- Juice content: ~45%
- Brix: 11–13% at maturity
- Seeds: Moderate — typically 7–10 per fruit
- Peel: Easy to peel — classic navel structure
- Flavor: Sweet with distinctive berry-like undertones
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures December through April in California
- Mid-season — overlaps with Washington
- Holds quality on tree for extended period
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Arizona trial: 211 lbs/tree mid-season yield documented
- Pink flesh from lycopene: Same antioxidant as tomatoes — not anthocyanin
- Marketing premium: Sells at higher price than Washington
- Planting density: 120–170 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~135 bins~$54,000
Mature, average~280 bins~$112,000
Mature, strong~410 bins~$164,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Discovered 1976 at Hacienda Cara Cara, Venezuela
- Spontaneous bud sport of Washington navel on a single tree
- Not a blood orange — pink color from lycopene (carotenoid)
- Rootstock: Carrizo, C35, or Trifoliate
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Premium market position: Higher price than standard Washington
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Cara Cara Navel
Arizona Cultivar Selection Trials (2007–08, 2008–09)
UC ANR Cooperative Extension — Pigmented Navel Varieties
Atwood Navel
Citrus sinensis
|
California selection
|
Early Season

Whole fruit

Cross section
~180–300 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 70–80 mm (2.8–3.1") diameter
- Weight: ~190–240 g (6.7–8.5 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round with classic navel
- Rind color: Bright orange, smooth
- Flesh color: Deep orange
- Juice content: ~45–50%
- Brix: 11–13%
- Seeds: Seedless
- Peel: Easy
- Flavor: Classic navel — sweet, balanced
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures November through December
- Earlier than Washington — early-season window
- Captures pre-Christmas premium pricing
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Maturity timing: Comparable to Beck and Fisher early navels
- Color development: Develops full color earlier than Fukumoto
- Tree habit: Moderate vigor
- Planting density: 120–170 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~125 bins~$50,000
Mature, average~250 bins~$100,000
Mature, strong~360 bins~$144,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- California selection in the early-navel category
- Maturity comparable to Beck and Fisher
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Reliable production with classic navel characteristics
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Atwood Navel
UCANR Production Guides — Early Season Navels
Lane Late Navel
Citrus sinensis
|
Australia origin
|
Late Season Pioneer

Whole fruit

Cross section
~200–340 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 70–80 mm (2.8–3.1") diameter
- Weight: ~200–250 g (7–8.8 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to slightly oblong
- Rind color: Bright orange — thicker than Powell
- Flesh color: Orange
- Juice content: Lower than other late navels
- Seeds: Seedless
- Peel: Easy
- Granulation: Some granulation in late-harvest fruit
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures February through May
- First successful late-season navel imported to California
- Exceptional hang-time — maintains quality through spring
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Hang time: Exceptional — quality holds long after most navels drop
- Trade-offs: Thicker rind, more granulation, lower juice than Powell
- Status: Largely superseded by Powell and Carninka in newer plantings
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~125 bins~$50,000
Mature, average~270 bins~$108,000
Mature, strong~430 bins~$172,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Australia origin — first late navel imported to California
- Rootstock: Carrizo, C35, or trifoliate
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Replaced in many new plantings by Powell (later, thinner-skinned, more juice)
- Best in warm inland valleys with heat accumulation
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Lane Late Navel
UC ANR — Late-Hanging Navel Cultivar Trials
Olinda Valencia
Citrus sinensis
|
California Selection
|
Late Season
|
Juice Standard

Whole fruit

Cross section
~250–400 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
0–6 seeds/fruit
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 70–85 mm (2.7–3.3") diameter
- Weight: ~200–270 g (7–9.5 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to slightly oblong
- Rind color: Bright orange, smooth
- Flesh color: Deep orange — vibrant juice color
- Juice content: High — 50%+
- Brix: 12–14% at peak (rises through season)
- Seeds: Variable — typically 0–6
- Peel: Adheres more than navels — better for juicing
- Flavor: Rich, sweet, classic Valencia
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures March through September
- Bridges between late navels and Valencia season
- Best flavor in mid-to-late season harvest
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Mature production: 250–400+ lbs per tree under good management
- Marketing window: Bridges navel and Valencia seasons
- Flavor improvement: Acid drops, sugars rise through season
- Planting density: 120–170 trees/acre
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~170 bins~$68,000
Mature, average~325 bins~$130,000
Mature, strong~500 bins~$200,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- California Valencia selection
- Standard variety for California juice production
- Rootstock: Carrizo, C35, or Trifoliate
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Heat tolerance: Performs well in San Joaquin Valley conditions
- Long harvest window enables flexible marketing
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Valencia Selections
UC ANR — Citrus Production Manual
Changes in Volatile and Non-Volatile Flavor Chemicals of "Valencia" Orange Juice (NCBI)
Midknight Valencia
Citrus sinensis
|
South Africa 1927
|
Virtually Seedless
|
Premium Juice

Whole fruit

Cross section
~200–340 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Virtually Seedless
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Large — 70–85 mm (2.8–3.3") diameter
- Weight: ~250–340 g (8.8–12 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Slightly oblong, somewhat broad
- Rind color: Bright orange, very smooth texture
- Flesh color: Deep orange
- Juice content: Very high — superior to standard Valencia
- Brix: Higher TSS than standard Valencia
- Seeds: Virtually seedless (few to none)
- Peel: Slightly tougher rag — more challenging to peel than Olinda
- Flavor: Excellent — sweet, rich juice quality
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures March through August
- Slightly earlier than standard Valencia
- Long harvest window — flexible marketing
- Production begins year 3–4 (slower than standard Valencia)
Yield Performance
- Trade-off: Lower fruit count, larger fruit size — similar total weight
- Tree habit: Slower-growing than standard Valencia
- Frost sensitivity: More susceptible to frost than standard Valencia
- Copper deficiency: More susceptible to copper deficiency — manage soil nutrition
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 5 (developing)~130 bins~$52,000
Mature, average~270 bins~$108,000
Mature, strong~430 bins~$172,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Origin: A.P. Knight farm, Addo, Eastern Cape, South Africa (1927)
- CRC 3955 at UCR — available through CCPP
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 — incompatible with rough lemon
- USDA Zones: 9–11 (frost-sensitive)
- Slower growth — patience required for first commercial crop
- Premium juice market — higher sugar levels than Valencia
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Midknight Valencia (CRC 3955)
Good Fruit Guide — Midknight commercial profile
South African Citrus Producers' Association documentation
Delta Valencia
Citrus sinensis
|
South Africa origin
|
Early Valencia
|
Seedless

Whole fruit

Cross section
~250–380 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium-large, 70–80 mm (2.8–3.1") diameter
- Weight: ~220–280 g (7.8–9.9 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to slightly oblong
- Rind color: Bright orange, smooth
- Flesh color: Deep orange
- Juice content: High
- Seeds: Seedless
- Peel: Adherent — typical Valencia
- Flavor: Sweet, classic Valencia profile
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures February through July
- Earlier than standard Valencia
- Extends fresh-market window earlier into spring
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Compared to Midknight: More productive than Midknight, smaller fruit
- Compared to Olinda: Earlier maturity than Olinda
- Tree habit: Vigorous — closer to standard Valencia
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~150 bins~$60,000
Mature, average~305 bins~$122,000
Mature, strong~485 bins~$194,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- South Africa origin
- Rootstock: Carrizo, C35, or trifoliate
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Genetically seedless — few functioning pollen and ovules
- Best in inland California — needs heat accumulation
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Delta Valencia
UC ANR — Mandarin and Orange Production Guide (Chao & Lovatt)
Mexican (Key) Lime
Citrus × aurantiifolia
|
West Indian / Mexican
|
Specialty Market
|
High-Aroma

Whole fruit

Cross section
Year-round
HARVEST WINDOW
~80–180 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Small — 2.5–5 cm (1–2") diameter
- Weight: ~30–60 g (1–2.1 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round, smooth-skinned
- Rind color: Green when fresh, yellow at full maturity; thin
- Flesh color: Greenish-yellow
- Juice content: Highly acidic
- Acidity: 7–8% citric acid — very tart
- Seeds: Seedy
- Peel: Very thin
- Flavor: Strong aroma, intense lime, tart and slightly bitter
Harvest & Maturity
- Year-round in suitable climate
- Multiple flushes per year
- Frost-sensitive — protect from cold
- Production begins year 2
Yield Performance
- Tree habit: Thorny (standard) or thornless selection
- Climate: Tropical — high heat requirement
- Market position: Specialty/restaurant/cocktail market
- Cold-hardiness: Limited — most frost-sensitive citrus
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 3 (developing)~65 bins~$39,000
Mature, average~145 bins~$87,000
Mature, strong~220 bins~$132,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Also known as Key lime, West Indian lime, Bartender's lime
- Selections available: thorny standard or thornless
- Rootstock: Macrophylla (ideal for heat tolerance)
- USDA Zones: 10–11 — frost-sensitive
- Classic Key lime pie variety
- Authentic margarita and Mexican cuisine ingredient
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Mexican Lime
UC ANR — Mexican Thornless Lime (Solano County)
USDA-ERS — Fresh Market Limes Production Outlook
Rio Red Grapefruit
Citrus × paradisi
|
Texas 1984 / Released 1988
|
Deep Red Flesh
|
Sweet, Low-Acid

Whole & cross section
~200–400 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Large — 12–15 cm (4.7–5.9") diameter
- Weight: ~280–450 g (9.9–15.9 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round to oblate, sometimes "sheep-nose" indentation
- Rind color: Yellow-orange with pink blush
- Flesh color: Deep red — 10–13 segments per fruit
- Juice content: Exceptionally high
- Brix: Sweet — higher than traditional white grapefruit
- Seeds: Seedless or few cream-colored
- Peel: Semi-thin, smooth
- Flavor: Sweet, low acid — accessible grapefruit
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures December through May
- Long marketing window
- Holds well on tree
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Parent: Developed from Ruby Red in Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Tree habit: Large, vigorous, productive
- Climate preference: Warm, humid, windy growing conditions
- Cold-hardiness: Hardy on trifoliate rootstock to lower 20s°F
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~135 bins~$54,000
Mature, average~285 bins~$114,000
Mature, strong~445 bins~$178,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Origin: Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Developed: 1984, released to growers 1988
- Parent: Ruby Red grapefruit (1929 patent)
- Rootstock: Trifoliate (cold-hardy) or Carrizo
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Named for the Rio Grande Valley
- Most popular red grapefruit in Texas, growing California presence
Sources:
Specialty Produce — Rio Red Grapefruit Production Profile
Good Fruit Guide — Rio Red Commercial Documentation
USDA Texas Citrus Industry Reports
Star Ruby Grapefruit
Citrus × paradisi
|
Texas 1970
|
Deepest Red Flesh
|
Premium

Whole & cross section
~180–350 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
1–6 seeds/fruit
SEED CONTENT
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Medium — 8–10 cm (3.25–4") diameter
- Weight: ~220–340 g (7.8–12 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Round, smaller than Rio Red
- Rind color: Yellow with characteristic dark pink blush
- Flesh color: Intense rich red — deeper than Rio Red
- Juice content: High
- Brix: Sweet-tart — the redder, the sweeter
- Seeds: 1–6 per fruit
- Peel: Nearly smooth
- Flavor: Rich, sweet-tart — classic ruby grapefruit
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures December through May
- Peak quality January–March
- Holds well on tree
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Released: 1970 in Texas — first commercial deep-red grapefruit
- Tree habit: Moderate vigor
- Color development: Color deepens with cooler nights
- Market position: Premium specialty
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~115 bins~$46,000
Mature, average~250 bins~$100,000
Mature, strong~390 bins~$156,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Released 1970 in Texas — first commercial deep-red grapefruit
- Smaller than Rio Red but more intensely colored
- Rootstock: Trifoliate, Carrizo, or sour orange
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Texas state fruit: Red grapefruit chosen in 1993
- Parent of Rio Red (with Ruby Red)
Sources:
Specialty Produce — Star Ruby Grapefruit Production Profile
Texas A&M Citrus Center — Grapefruit Variety Documentation
Chandler Pummelo
Citrus maxima
|
UC Riverside Selection
|
Pink Flesh, Sweet
|
Large Fruit (2-4 lbs)

Whole & cross section
~150–300 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Very large — 14–18 cm (5.5–7") diameter
- Weight: 1–2 kg (2–4 lbs) per fruit
- Shape: Round to pear-shaped
- Rind color: Greenish-yellow, very thick (1–2 cm)
- Flesh color: Light pink with mild sweetness
- Juice content: Moderate — easily segmented
- Seeds: Few to none when grown in isolation
- Peel: Thick, tough, but easy to remove revealing juicy interior
- Flavor: Sweet, mild — none of grapefruit's tartness
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures November through June
- Long marketing window
- Fruit holds well on tree
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Parent cross: Siamese Sweet × Siamese Pink (Southern California)
- Tree habit: Medium-large, open spreading
- Cold-hardiness: To approximately 22°F
- Market position: Asian markets, specialty/restaurant
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~100 bins~$40,000
Mature, average~210 bins~$84,000
Mature, strong~325 bins~$130,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Developed at UC Riverside from Siamese Sweet × Siamese Pink
- Rootstock: Carrizo or C35 citrange
- USDA Zones: 9–11 (hardy to ~22°F)
- Strong Asian market demand for fresh consumption
- Excellent ornamental landscape value (large fruit, glossy leaves)
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Chandler Pummelo
Urban Harvest — Grapefruit & Pummelo Variety Guide
Stark Bro's Nursery — Chandler Red Pummelo Documentation
Australian Finger Lime
Citrus australasica
|
Australian Native
|
Specialty High-Value
|
Chef's Caviar

Whole & cross section
~20–80 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Cylindrical — 6–10 cm long, 2–3 cm diameter
- Weight: ~15–50 g (0.5–1.8 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Elongated, finger-shaped
- Rind color: Green, yellow, red, purple, or black depending on selection
- Flesh color: Pearl-like vesicles in green, pink, or red
- Juice content: Vesicles release on cutting — "citrus caviar"
- Seeds: Few — small
- Peel: Thin, smooth
- Flavor: Intense, lime-like with floral notes
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures August through February
- Multiple selections available with varied colors and seasons
- Production begins year 3
- Slow-maturing tree
Yield Performance
- Market position: Premium specialty — restaurants, cocktail bars, high-end retail
- Pricing: $50-100+ per pound retail
- Tree habit: Small to medium tree, thorny
- Demand: Growing chef demand exceeds supply
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
Year 4 (developing)~10 bins~$10,000
Mature, average~25 bins~$25,000
Mature, strong~45 bins~$45,000
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Native to Australian rainforest understory
- Available at UCR as CRC 1484 (Microcitrus australasica)
- Rootstock: Trifoliate or own roots
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Multiple cultivar selections by color (Pink Ice, Crystal, Emerald, Red Champagne, Black Pearl)
- Tree habit: Thorny shrub, slow-growing
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Microcitrus australasica (CRC 1484)
UC ANR — Australian Finger Lime Production Notes
Specialty Produce — Finger Lime Market Profile
Buddha's Hand Citron
Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis
|
Asian Heritage
|
Specialty & Decorative
|
Aromatic Peel

Whole & cross section
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Variable — 15-30 cm (6-12") long with finger-like projections
- Weight: ~200–400 g (7–14 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Unique — open-hand to closed-hand finger configurations
- Rind color: Deep lemon-yellow at maturity
- Flesh color: No flesh, no juice, no seeds
- Juice content: None — pith and peel only
- Peel: Thick, fragrant — entirely usable
- Flavor: Lemon-lavender peel; intensely aromatic
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures November through January
- Production begins year 3
- Slow-growing — patience required
Yield Performance
- Tree habit: Small tree (8–15 ft), thorny, irregular branching
- Market position: Decorative, ceremonial, high-end culinary
- Ornamental value: Display piece — symbolic in Asian cultures
- Restaurant demand: Growing — chefs use peel zest for flavor
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
ProductionVariable — specialty market
PricingPremium per-fruit retail
Per-acre dataLimited California commercial data
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Citrus medica variety — the citron lineage
- Available at UCR specialty collection
- Rootstock: Trifoliate or own roots
- USDA Zones: 9–11
- Asian cultural significance: Symbolic of long life, happiness
- Culinary use: Peel zest for liqueurs, syrups, candies
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Buddha's Hand Citron specialty entry
UF/IFAS Extension — Buddha Hand Citron Profile
Wikipedia — Buddha's hand citron botanical entry
Nagami & Meiwa Kumquat
Fortunella spp.
|
Asian Heritage
|
Eaten Whole
|
Specialty

Whole & cross section
~80–200 lbs
YIELD PER TREE
Fruit Characteristics
- Size: Small — 2.5–4 cm (1–1.6") long
- Weight: ~10–25 g (0.4–0.9 oz) per fruit
- Shape: Nagami: oval/elongated; Meiwa: round/oblong
- Rind color: Bright orange, smooth
- Flesh color: Orange
- Juice content: Modest — flesh-to-rind ratio is low
- Seeds: Few
- Peel: Edible — sweet on both varieties
- Flavor: Nagami: sweet peel, tart flesh; Meiwa: sweet throughout
Harvest & Maturity
- Matures November through April
- Long fruiting season
- Production begins year 3
Yield Performance
- Selection availability: Nagami (CRC 3877) and Meiwa
- Tree habit: Compact — 6–12 ft, slow-growing
- Cold-hardiness: Excellent — hardy to ~10–15°F
- Market position: Specialty — farmers markets, gourmet retail
Estimated Yield — Per 1,000 Trees
ProductionVariable — specialty market
Pricing$4–10/lb retail typical
Per-acre dataLimited commercial-scale California data
900 lbs/bin · $400/bin avg return · gross revenue only
Tree & Growing Notes
- Available selections: Nagami (CRC 3877) and Meiwa
- Centennial variegated kumquat and Nordmann Seedless also at UCR
- Rootstock: Trifoliate or sour orange
- USDA Zones: 8–11 — among the most cold-hardy citrus
- Nagami vs Meiwa: Choose Nagami for cooking/preserves, Meiwa for fresh eating
- Excellent ornamental specimen (small, evergreen, abundant fruit)
Sources:
UCR Citrus Variety Collection — Nagami (CRC 3877), Meiwa, Specialty selections
US Citrus Nursery — Meiwa Kumquat Care Guide
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Tango Mandarin variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
YIELD
FRUIT QUALITY
SEED COUNT
TREE CHARACTERISTICS
Yield per tree — 22 to 222 lbs (mature trees)
The patent reports fruit production on two-year-old trees averaging 10–26 kg (22–57 lbs) and three-year-old trees averaging 33–58 kg (73–128 lbs) across three California trial sites (Riverside, Santa Paula, Irvine). The original mother tree at Riverside yielded 98 kg (216 lbs) in year 5, 90 kg (198 lbs) in year 6, and 101 kg (222 lbs) in year 7.
Virtually seedless — <1 seed per fruit
The patent states Tango exhibits very low seed numbers — averaging just 0.22 seeds per fruit at Riverside under cross-pollination conditions, compared to 10–20 seeds/fruit for the parent W. Murcott. Tango's pollen has very low germination rates (<5%) and does not cause seeds in neighboring mandarins.
Production begins year 2; planting density 150–250 trees/acre
The patent specifies that fruit production begins in the second year after planting — one year earlier than most mandarin cultivars. Recommended planting densities range from 150–250 trees per acre using standard rootstocks including Carrizo and C35 citrange.
VARIETY ORIGIN
RELEASE DATE
Developed at UC Riverside — released to growers in 2006
The UCR Citrus Variety Collection confirms Tango was developed by Professors Mikeal Roose and Timothy Williams using gamma irradiation (50 Gray units, Cobalt-60 source) on W. Murcott budwood in June 1995 at Riverside. After multi-site evaluation, the variety was officially released to growers in 2006.
PATENT STATUS
MARKET POSITION
Patent expired September 2025 — royalty-free for U.S. growers
UCR officially confirmed the U.S. plant patent for Tango expired September 6, 2025. Domestic growers may now plant Tango freely without royalty obligations.
Dominant market position — 32% of California mandarin acreage
In 2024, Tango accounted for nearly 20,000 acres, or 32% of all mandarin acreage in California. The 2024–25 production value was approximately $272 million.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Shiranui variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
VARIETY ORIGIN
SEED COUNT
PRODUCTION
Hybrid origin — Ponkan tangerine × Kiyomi tangor
Shiranui was developed by Japanese government researchers in the 1970s as a hybrid between Ponkan mandarin and Kiyomi tangor (itself a satsuma × sweet orange cross). The variety was named after the test plot site in Shiranuhi, Kumamoto Prefecture.
Seedy without isolation — verified at multiple UCR sites
UCR has documented that the publicly available Shiranui (VI 860) remains seedy in both Riverside and Exeter locations. Seedlessness requires isolation from other citrus, particularly pummelo. This is critical commercial knowledge for growers.
High Brix — 13 to 18 degrees
Premium fresh-market Shiranui typically meets high sugar levels with acidity below 1%. The flavor is described as rich, refreshing, fruity, and balanced sweet-tangy. The fruit holds 13–18° Brix at maturity.
MARKET POSITION
PREMIUM PRICING
Premium markets reward quality
Fruit meeting high sugar levels, acidity ranges, and growing conditions commands premium fresh-market retail pricing — typically $4–8/lb compared to standard mandarins at $1–2/lb.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the DaisySL Seedless Mandarin variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
YIELD
FRUIT QUALITY
TREE CHARACTERISTICS
CULTURAL PRACTICES
Yield per tree — 70 to 170 lbs (mature trees)
The patent reports fruit production on four-year-old trees averaging 27–48 kg (60–106 lbs) across four California trial sites. The original mother tree at Riverside yielded 77 kg (170 lbs) in year 7, demonstrating the alternate bearing pattern. This data forms the basis for the 70–170 lbs/tree range used in all yield estimates.
Near-seedless — ~2.2 seeds per fruit
The patent states DaisySL is very low seeded at 2.2 seeds/fruit in all cross-pollination situations, compared to 16–25 seeds/fruit for the original Daisy. In uniformly varietal commercial plantings, seed count is expected to be even lower.
Fruit characteristics — size, weight, juice, color, flavor
Patent data: fruit averages 68 mm (2.7") diameter and 60 mm (2.4") height. Average weight is 135 g (4.8 oz). Juice content averages 47%. Rind and flesh are very deep orange with smooth texture.
Full production begins year 3; planting density 150–250 trees/acre
Full fruit production begins in the third year after planting. Recommended planting densities range from 150–250 trees per acre using Carrizo and C35 citrange. Alternate bearing can be reduced through active fruit thinning.
VARIETY ORIGIN
RELEASE DATE
Developed at UC Riverside from irradiated Daisy bud
DaisySL was officially released by the University of California, Riverside in June 2009. It was developed through irradiation of Daisy mandarin budwood to produce a near-seedless mutation suitable for the mid-season California marketing window.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the W. Murcott Afourer variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
YIELD
PLANTING DENSITY
PRODUCTION
Standard commercial planting: 14' × 18' = 170 trees/acre
UC's Ventura County cost study used W. Murcott as the model variety, with planting density of 170 trees per acre at 14' × 18' spacing. Variations of 100 to 300 trees per acre are documented depending on planting pattern (square, hedgerow, triangle).
Excellent production with little alternate bearing
W. Murcott is documented as having excellent production with minimal alternate bearing problems. By 2005, California had over 5,000 acres of W. Murcott planted, with cumulative plantings of 2–3 million trees by mid-2000s.
POLLINATION
ISOLATION REQUIREMENTS
Seedless only when isolated — seedy when cross-pollinated
W. Murcott is self-incompatible. Seedless to low-seeded fruit is produced only in isolated single-block plantings. When cross-pollinated by other citrus (mandarins, Valencias, Minneolas, lemons), fruit becomes seedy at 10–20 seeds per fruit — substantially reducing commercial value.
Strong pollinizer of Clementines
W. Murcott is a strong pollinizer for other mandarins, particularly Clementines. Adjacent Clementine plantings will develop seedy fruit. Growers must consider block layout carefully.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Owari Satsuma variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
VARIETY ORIGIN
COLD HARDINESS
SEEDLESSNESS
Cold-hardy citrus — productive in marginal zones
Owari Satsuma is documented as one of the most cold-hardy commercial citrus varieties, tolerating temperatures to approximately 15°F. This makes it viable in USDA Zone 8b growing areas where other commercial citrus cannot survive.
Genetically seedless — no isolation required
Unlike many mandarin varieties, Owari Satsuma is genetically female-sterile, producing seedless fruit regardless of neighboring citrus plantings. This eliminates the isolation requirement common to other premium mandarins.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Clementine Mandarin variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
SELECTIONS
ISOLATION
EARLY SEASON
14 commercial Clementine selections available
UCR maintains 14 Clementine selections including Algerian, Nules (Clemenules), Fina, Caffin, Marisol, Esbal, Hernandina, and Nour. Different selections have different maturity dates and tree habits, allowing growers to spread harvest across the October–January window.
Self-incompatible — isolation or controlled pollinizer required
Clementines are self-incompatible. In isolated plantings, they produce seedless to low-seeded fruit. When cross-pollinated by other citrus (particularly W. Murcott Afourer, Minneola tangelo, or Valencia), seed counts rise dramatically — typically to 5–10 seeds per fruit — reducing fresh-market value.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Gold Nugget Mandarin variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
VARIETY ORIGIN
SEEDLESSNESS
LATE SEASON
Mid-to-late maturing, exceptional storage on tree
Per UCR: Gold Nugget is a late-maturing diploid mandarin hybrid that combines good fruit size, excellent productivity, outstanding storage characteristics both on and off the tree, extremely rich and sweet fruit flavor, and the absence of seeds even in mixed plantings.
Seedless even in mixed plantings — no isolation required
Gold Nugget has none to very few functioning pollen and ovules, producing seedless fruit regardless of neighboring citrus. This eliminates the isolation constraint that limits commercial Clementine and W. Murcott plantings.
C-35 citrange is the preferred rootstock
C-35 has proven to be the best rootstock for Gold Nugget, moderating tree size, resisting root diseases, adapting well to different soils, and supporting the high-quality late-hanging fruit. Rich 16-6 trifoliate is also documented as suitable.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Page Mandarin variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
VARIETY ORIGIN
EARLY SEASON
TANGELO HYBRID
Minneola × Clementine cross made by USDA in 1942
Per UCR: Page is a cross between Minneola tangelo and Clementine mandarin made by Gardner and Bellows of the U.S.D.A. in 1942. It was officially released as an orange, but technically the variety is a tangelo hybrid since its parentage is three-fourths mandarin and one-fourth grapefruit.
Deep orange, rich-sweet, easily-peeled medium fruit
Per UCR: fruit of medium size, broadly oblate to subglobose; rind medium-thin, leathery, moderately adherent but easily peelable, surface smooth to moderately pebbled, reddish-orange at maturity. Flesh color deep orange, tender and juicy, flavor rich and sweet. Early in maturity.
Seedy when cross-pollinated, like its Clementine parent
Page sets moderately numerous seeds when grown near other citrus. As with Clementine, fruit is only seedless when grown in isolation from other varieties — a planting consideration for growers seeking a seedless pack.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Parent Washington Navel variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
HERITAGE
INDUSTRY STANDARD
PRODUCTION
The variety that built California's citrus industry
The Washington navel was introduced to California in 1873 when Eliza and Luther Tibbets in Riverside received two trees from the USDA. Their success launched the California navel orange industry and made Washington the dominant fresh-market orange in the U.S. for over a century.
Standard for all navel comparisons
Every subsequent navel variety — Fukumoto, Cara Cara, Atwood, Lane Late, Powell, Chislett — is evaluated against Washington as the reference point. Washington remains the largest-acreage navel in California.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Fukumoto Navel variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
YIELD COMPARISON
EARLY SEASON
FRUIT QUALITY
Consistently lower yield than other early navels
Across multiple seasons of Arizona trials, Fukumoto consistently has the least yield among early-maturing navel selections compared to Beck-Earli and Fisher. Despite the lower volume, growers value Fukumoto for its early premium-pricing window and superior red-orange peel color.
Premium early-season color and flavor
Fukumoto is recognized for its intense red-orange peel color that develops earlier than other navels — making it visually distinctive in the early marketing window. Sweet flavor with low acid makes it accessible to consumers.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Cara Cara Navel variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
VARIETY ORIGIN
PINK FLESH
LYCOPENE
Pink flesh from lycopene — not a blood orange
Per UCR research, Cara Cara is not a blood orange. Blood oranges (Moro, Tarocco, Sanguinello) derive their purple-red flesh from anthocyanin pigments. Cara Cara's pink-salmon flesh comes from lycopene — the same red carotenoid antioxidant found in tomatoes. This distinction matters for both botanical accuracy and marketing positioning.
Spontaneous mutation from Washington navel
Cara Cara originated as a single bud sport observed on a Washington navel tree at Hacienda de Cara Cara in Venezuela in 1976. It has been propagated asexually since, maintaining the pink-flesh trait.
YIELD
FRUIT QUALITY
211 lbs/tree mid-season yield documented
Arizona cultivar trials documented Cara Cara at 211 lbs per tree as a mid-season selection — greater than Zimmerman but in the intermediate range compared to Washington. Exterior fruit quality was rated intermediate, with more fancy grade and less juice grade than Beck or Fisher.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Atwood Navel variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
EARLY SEASON
CALIFORNIA SELECTION
Listed among UCR's documented early-mid navel selections
Atwood is maintained at UCR as part of the early-to-mid season navel orange collection, alongside Beck-Earli, Fisher, Newhall, Fukumoto, Cara Cara, and others. The UCR collection provides certified virus-free budwood available through CCPP.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Lane Late Navel variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
LATE SEASON
HANG TIME
TRIAL DATA
First successful late-season navel — California heritage
Lane Late was the first late-season navel orange imported to California from Australia. It established the late-season navel category and remained the standard until newer selections (Powell, Carninka) offered advantages in skin thickness, juice content, and granulation resistance.
Some trade-offs vs newer late navels
UC research documents Lane Late as having consistently thicker skins, more granulation, and lower juice content compared to newer late navel selections. However, exceptional hang time and reliable spring quality keep it commercially relevant in many California operations.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Olinda Valencia variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
LATE SEASON
JUICE QUALITY
CALIFORNIA STANDARD
Late season — bridges navel and Valencia harvest
Olinda Valencia fills the marketing window between late navels (ending in May) and the main Valencia season (running into autumn). Its long harvest window — March through September — gives growers flexibility in marketing decisions.
JUICE QUALITY
HARVEST TIMING
Flavor improves with harvest timing
Research on Valencia juice quality shows fruit harvested in earlier months had lower flavor quality. Juice from later harvests had higher sugar/acid ratio with less bitterness. Many important aroma compounds peaked in mid-to-late season. This data informs optimal harvest timing for premium juice production.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Midknight Valencia variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
VARIETY ORIGIN
FRUIT QUALITY
ROOTSTOCK
Virtually seedless, medium-large, excellent quality
Per UCR documentation: Midknight is a virtually seedless, medium-large, somewhat oblong fruit of excellent quality and medium-late maturity. South African production data confirms excellent fruit size (mainly 70–85 mm), good round shape, very smooth rind texture, excellent internal quality, high juice percentages and TSS levels.
Bud union incompatibility with rough lemon rootstock
Critical commercial note from UCR: Midknight shows marked bud union incompatibility on rough lemon. Growers must use Carrizo, C35, or compatible alternatives. This is essential information for nursery propagation and field planting decisions.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Delta Valencia variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
EARLY VALENCIA
SEEDLESSNESS
Documented as one of the seedless Valencias
Per UC ANR research: "Midknight" and "Delta" Valencia oranges, along with "Pixie", "Gold Nugget" and "Seedless Kishu" mandarins have none to very few functioning pollen and ovules. This genetic seedlessness means Delta produces seedless fruit regardless of neighboring citrus, eliminating isolation requirements.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Mexican (Key) Lime variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
FRUIT CHARACTERISTICS
SPECIALTY MARKET
True lime with 7–8% citric acid
Per USDA-ERS documentation referencing Reuther et al.: Key lime (Citrus × aurantiifolia), also known as West Indian, Bartender's, Omani, or Mexican lime, is 1–2 inches in diameter, very smooth-skinned with a thin rind, round, juicy, highly acidic with strong aroma, tart and bitter, containing 7–8% citric acid. The tree is thorny with high heat requirement for ideal production.
Heavily produced in India and Mexico
Per USDA-ERS: The key lime is produced heavily in India and parts of Mexico, where it is the preferred variety for domestic use. U.S. consumer preference is for the larger, juicier Persian lime — but the Mexican lime maintains a specialty/restaurant market segment for authentic Latin and Caribbean cuisine.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Rio Red Grapefruit variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
DEEP COLOR
SWEETNESS
TEXAS STANDARD
Sweeter than traditional grapefruit
Per Specialty Produce documentation: Rio Red grapefruits are distinct as they have a deeper coloring and sweeter taste than the Ruby Red parent. The variety was named Rio after the Rio Grande Valley, the fruit's site of origin. The Rio Grande Valley is famous for its warm temperatures, humidity, and windy nature — factors that help the fruits develop their signature sweet taste.
Texas industry standard with strong export market
Per Good Fruit Guide: Rio Red is the preferred red grapefruit of growers in Texas. Has good external appearance with deep blushed areas, slightly thick rind but exceptional juice content. Flesh color is deep pink. Grown in Texas, Florida, California, South Africa, Australia.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Star Ruby Grapefruit variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
DEEPEST RED
SPECIALTY MARKET
FRUIT QUALITY
Released 1970 — first commercial deep-red grapefruit
Per Specialty Produce historical documentation: The Ruby Red grapefruit was the first grapefruit granted a United States patent (1929). In 1970, the now very popular Star Ruby variety was released, followed by the Rio Red variety in 1984. Star Ruby was the first commercially successful deep-red grapefruit, establishing the pigmented grapefruit market category.
Smaller than Rio Red, deeper color, slightly more seeds
Per Specialty Produce: Measuring about 3.25–4 inches in diameter, Star Ruby is smaller than the Ray Ruby and Rio Red varieties. Contains 1–6 seeds per fruit. The redder the flesh, the sweeter the taste. Standard pink grapefruit in taste, flavor and appearance — but with deepest color.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Chandler Pummelo variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
UCR VARIETY
LARGE FRUIT
SWEET FLAVOR
UCR-developed Siamese cross with pink flesh
Per UCR documentation and Urban Harvest: Chandler is a hybrid of Siamese Sweet and Siamese Pink developed at UC Riverside. The red, fleshy slices are sweet and juicy with a flavor similar to grapefruit, but not so tart. The fragrant flowers and large fruit make it an outstanding ornamental as well as a productive edible.
Large fruit (2-4 lbs), few-to-no seeds
Per Stark Bro's commercial documentation and Urban Harvest: This huge, thick-skinned fruit can weigh up to 4 pounds. The skin is thick and tough but easy to peel. Light pink flesh with mild taste and slight bitter aftertaste. Few to no seeds — easily segmented. Cold-hardy to 22°F.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Australian Finger Lime variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
SPECIALTY MARKET
PREMIUM PRICING
AUSTRALIAN NATIVE
Available at UCR as part of specialty collection
Per UCR: Microcitrus australasica is maintained in the Citrus Variety Collection's specialty section alongside Buddha's Hand citron, Yuzu, Sudachi, Kabosu, and other distinctive citrus relatives. Limited California-specific commercial trial data is available — production references are largely Australian.
Premium specialty market — "citrus caviar" for restaurants
Per industry trade documentation: Finger lime fruit splits open to reveal pearl-like vesicles in varying colors. These vesicles "pop" releasing intense lime flavor — earning the marketing name "citrus caviar" or "lime caviar." Premium pricing at $50-100+/lb is sustained by restaurant and cocktail program demand.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Buddha's Hand Citron variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
SPECIALTY
CITRON LINEAGE
ASIAN HERITAGE
Citron lineage — one of the 5 ancestral citrus species
Per UCR and Wikipedia: Buddha's hand is a mutation of Citron (Citrus medica), one of the five ancestral species of citrus fruits. Origin traces to South or East Asia, probably northeastern India or China. Different cultivars and variations form a gradient from "open-hand" types with outward-splayed segments to "closed-hand" types.
No juice, no pulp — peel and pith only
Per UF/IFAS Extension: Buddha's hand consists of thick, fleshy yellow peel that is the source of lemon fragrance. The peel is intensely fragrant — this is its primary commercial value. Used in perfumery, candied peel production, flavored liqueurs, and traditional Asian medicine.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
This document details the primary scientific and institutional sources used to support all yield, fruit quality, harvest window, and agronomic claims presented in the Nagami & Meiwa Kumquat variety sheet. Each source is summarized with its key findings and the specific claims it supports.
MULTIPLE SELECTIONS
EDIBLE PEEL
COLD HARDY
Nagami vs Meiwa — distinct flavor profiles
Per US Citrus Nursery documentation: Meiwa kumquats offer sweetness throughout — both peel and flesh are sweet, creating a consistent, pleasant eating experience. Nagami kumquats present a sweet-tart contrast — sweet peel with distinctly sour flesh, creating a more complex experience. Meiwa fruits are shorter and more oblong-round; Nagami are more elongated and oval.
Eaten whole — peel and all
Per UCR documentation: Kumquats are unique among citrus in that the fruit is consumed whole — peel and flesh together. The peel is sweet on both Nagami and Meiwa varieties. This eating pattern, combined with small fruit size and cold-hardiness, makes kumquats excellent specialty/ornamental citrus.
All yield estimates are based on published university trial data and industry references. Actual commercial yields vary by site, rootstock, irrigation, and cultural management.
This document is intended for grower reference only and does not constitute a yield guarantee.
Rootstock Reference Guide
Comparison of M&G Nursery's six rootstock offerings
Choosing the right rootstock is one of the most consequential decisions in citrus production. Rootstock affects mature tree size, fruit quality, disease tolerance, soil compatibility, salt tolerance, and cold hardiness — all of which compound over the 30+ year life of an orchard.
M&G Nursery offers six rootstocks covering the full range of California growing conditions, from premium high-density plantings to challenging marginal soils. Each rootstock is described below with its specific strengths, ideal use cases, and limitations.
The most widely-used commercial rootstock in California. Balanced performance, good disease tolerance, moderate vigor.
Characteristics
Tristeza (CTV)Tolerant — primary reason for industry adoption
Cold-hardinessHardy — withstands ~20°F
Soil pH preference5.5–7.5 — moderate acidic to neutral
Salt toleranceLow — avoid saline irrigation
Calcareous soilsPoor performance on high-lime soils
Heavy clayAcceptable — better than C35
VigorModerate
Tree size inducedStandard
Fruit qualityExcellent — high juice content, good sugar/acid ratio
PhytophthoraTolerant
NematodesModerately tolerant
Best for
- Tango, DaisySL, Cara Cara, Fukumoto navels
- Most mandarins requiring moderate vigor
- Tristeza-prone areas (most of California)
- Heavy clay soil sites
Limitations
- Avoid in highly calcareous or saline soils
- Lower drought tolerance than Macrophylla
- Not ideal for very alkaline sites
Tree-size moderating rootstock. Smaller mature canopy enables higher-density plantings and easier picking.
Characteristics
Tristeza (CTV)Tolerant
Cold-hardinessHardy — comparable to Carrizo
Soil pH preference5.5–7.0 — best on acid to neutral soils
Salt toleranceLow — sensitive to chloride
Calcareous soilsPoor performance
Heavy clayLess tolerant than Carrizo
VigorModerate to low — size-controlling
Tree size induced~80% of standard — high-density compatible
Fruit qualityExcellent — superior to Carrizo for some varieties
PhytophthoraTolerant
NematodesModerately tolerant
Best for
- Gold Nugget mandarin (preferred rootstock)
- High-density mandarin plantings
- Sites where smaller tree canopy is preferred
- Premium varieties where fruit quality matters most
Limitations
- Heavy clay soils — Carrizo is better
- Calcareous/alkaline soils — use trifoliate alternatives
- Salt-affected sites — use Macrophylla instead
Pure trifoliate orange. Maximum cold hardiness, dwarfing tree size, exceptional fruit quality, but soil-restrictive.
Characteristics
Tristeza (CTV)Tolerant
Cold-hardinessHighest among rootstocks
Soil pH preference5.5–6.5 — strongly acid-preferring
Salt toleranceLow
Calcareous soilsPoor — avoid high-lime soils entirely
Heavy clayTolerant
VigorLow — dwarfing rootstock
Tree size induced~60-70% of standard — dwarfing
Fruit qualityOutstanding — highest sugar/acid ratios
PhytophthoraTolerant
NematodesTolerant
Best for
- Tango (best-quality fruit)
- Olinda Valencia, Shiranui (premium markets)
- Cold-climate sites (frost-prone)
- High-density mandarin plantings
- Heavy clay sites with good drainage
Limitations
- Calcareous soils — completely incompatible
- Reduced overall yield due to smaller tree
- Slower maturity to full production
- Lemons — incompatible with Eureka/Lisbon
Vigorous lemon rootstock. Excellent for marginal soils, high salt and lime tolerance. Lemon and lime industry standard.
Characteristics
Tristeza (CTV)Tolerant
Cold-hardinessModerate
Soil pH preference6.0–8.0 — adapts to alkaline conditions
Salt toleranceHigh — best among commercial rootstocks
Calcareous soilsTolerant
Heavy clayTolerant
VigorVery high
Tree size inducedLarge — standard or above
Fruit qualityGood — slightly lower brix than trifoliate
PhytophthoraSusceptible — manage water carefully
NematodesSusceptible
Drought toleranceExcellent
Best for
- Eureka and Lisbon lemons
- Bearss and Mexican limes
- Saline irrigation sites
- Calcareous (high-lime) soils
- Areas with poor water quality
Limitations
- Phytophthora and nematode susceptibility — irrigation discipline critical
- Lower fruit quality than trifoliate-based rootstocks for premium varieties
- Not recommended for premium mandarins where brix matters
Cold-hardy trifoliate selection. Most cold-hardy among commercial rootstocks. Quality fruit, smaller tree.
Characteristics
Tristeza (CTV)Tolerant
Cold-hardinessMaximum
Soil pH preference5.5–6.5 — acid-preferring
Salt toleranceLow
Calcareous soilsPoor
Heavy clayTolerant
VigorLow
Tree size inducedDwarfing
Fruit qualityOutstanding
PhytophthoraTolerant
NematodesTolerant
Best for
- Cold-marginal sites in San Joaquin Valley north regions
- Premium mandarin and navel varieties
- Heavy clay with good drainage
- High-quality fruit emphasis
Limitations
- Calcareous/alkaline soils — completely incompatible
- Saline sites — avoid
- Lemon compatibility issues
- Slower early growth
High-vigor rootstock for marginal soils. Excellent salt and lime tolerance, vigorous tree, used for lemons and limes.
Characteristics
Tristeza (CTV)Susceptible — DECLINE in stocks (avoid in tristeza areas)
Cold-hardinessLow — frost-sensitive
Soil pH preference6.0–8.0 — alkaline-adapted
Salt toleranceHigh
Calcareous soilsExcellent
Heavy clayTolerant
VigorVery high
Tree size inducedLarge
Fruit qualityAcceptable — coarser than trifoliate stocks
PhytophthoraSusceptible
Drought toleranceExcellent
Best for
- Mexican lime (ideal heat tolerance)
- Eureka and Lisbon lemons (alternative to Volkameriana)
- Severely calcareous (high-lime) soils
- Saline irrigation conditions
- Drought-prone sites
Limitations
- Tristeza-susceptible — major California concern
- Frost-sensitive — avoid cold-prone sites
- Not for premium mandarin/orange varieties
- Lower fruit quality than trifoliate alternatives
Need help choosing? Contact M&G Nursery directly to discuss your site conditions, varieties of interest, and production goals. We can recommend the optimal rootstock for your operation based on soil tests, water quality reports, and climate zone.
📞 (559) 397-1401 · ✉ mgfarmsinc@gmail.com