How to Grow Totally Tangerine
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Totally Tangerine
Citrus reticulata (cultivar)
treeTotally Tangerine is a dwarf mandarin orange tree that produces abundant small to medium-sized tangerines with a deep orange color and sweet, seedless or nearly seedless fruit. This ornamental citrus is prized for both its decorative appeal and productive yields, making it ideal for container growing and home gardens. The tree features fragrant white flowers in spring followed by vibrant winter fruit.
When should you plant Totally Tangerine in your zone?
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Example Totally Tangerine timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Totally Tangerine
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Totally Tangerine
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Totally Tangerine dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown in containers in cooler climates with winter protection
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Get my Totally Tangerine timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung tree is adjusting to planting site with active root development and modest new growth
Water regularly without waterlogging. Mulch around base (not touching trunk). Remove competing weeds. Stake if necessary for wind support.
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsTree develops branches and foliage; new glossy green leaves emerge throughout growing season
Prune only to shape and remove deadwood. Apply citrus fertilizer monthly during growing season. Monitor for pests. Thin any fruit that appears before year 3.
Flowering
3-4 weeksTree produces clusters of fragrant white flowers in spring; flowers have a sweet citrus fragrance
Ensure adequate water and nutrients. Do not prune during flowering. Protect from late frosts. Light hand-thinning may improve fruit size.
Fruit Development
4-5 monthsSmall green fruit forms and gradually enlarges throughout summer and fall, developing color and sweetness
Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Thin fruit to 6-8 inches apart for larger tangerines. Support heavy branches if needed.
Ripening & Harvest
2-3 monthsFruit transitions from green to deep orange as sugars develop; flavor peaks in late fall through winter
Do not harvest until fully ripe and deeply colored; fruit left on tree actually improves flavor. Maintain regular watering. Handle fruit gently.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves, apply horticultural oil, encourage natural parasitoid wasps, monitor for early signs
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Increase humidity, spray with water, apply neem oil or horticultural soap, ensure adequate irrigation
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Spray with dormant oil in winter, use insecticidal soap in growing season, remove heavily infested branches
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs, apply neem oil, encourage beneficial insects
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Inspect new growth regularly, remove infested shoots, use pyrethrin-based sprays, monitor for yellow shoots
Uses
Fresh eating and juice
CulinaryTotally Tangerine tangerines are prized for their seedless or nearly seedless fruit and naturally sweet, juicy flesh perfect for fresh eating out of hand. The easy-to-peel skin and minimal seeds make them ideal for juice and fresh fruit applications. [source]
Natural fragrance and essential oil
HouseholdThe highly fragrant flowers and aromatic fruit skin contain essential oils used in perfumery and aromatherapy. Dried peel can be used as a natural room freshener or added to potpourri. [source]
Ornamental landscape specimen
CraftThe Totally Tangerine tree is prized as an ornamental plant for its attractive glossy foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and stunning winter fruit display. It works beautifully in containers, patios, and as a focal point in Mediterranean or tropical-style gardens. [source]
Vitamin C and immune support
MedicinalTangerines are excellent sources of vitamin C, flavonoids, and antioxidants that support immune function and overall health. The fruit and peel have been used traditionally in herbal medicine. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe abundant white flowers in spring provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Growing this tree supports local pollinator populations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Fruit is ready to harvest when skin is fully orange (typically November-February). Gently twist and pull fruit from branch, or use pruning shears. Taste-test to ensure ripeness—flavor improves as fruit ages on tree. Store at room temperature for sweet flavor or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Totally Tangerine trees can produce hundreds of tangerines per season on mature specimens, with some home gardeners harvesting over 200 pounds from a single tree.
- 🌱 Unlike many citrus varieties, mandarins (including Totally Tangerine) are naturally seedless or nearly seedless due to a genetic trait called parthenocarpy, making them much more convenient to eat.
- 🌱 The fragrant white citrus flowers have been used in perfumery and traditional medicine for centuries; their essential oil is called 'neroli' and is highly valued in the perfume industry.
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