Citrus unshiu – Naartjie

The Citrus genus is native to southeast Asia, stretching from northern India to China, and south through Malaysia, the East Indies, and the Philippines. Amongst the many citrus species, Citrus unshiu, commonly known as the cold-hardy mandarin, satsuma mandarin, or tangerine stands out. The name unshiu comes from Unshu (Wenzhou), a famous production region in China. South Africa ranks as the second-largest citrus exporter in the world, just behind Spain. While most citrus trees are not particularly cold hardy, Citrus unshiu is one of the hardier varieties.

Naartjie trees bloom in spring, with their sweet, tangy fruits ripening from early April to May. Despite the hundreds of thousands of blossoms produced by a mature tree, only about 2% will develop into edible fruit. The Naartjie has a sweet-tart taste and is known for its ease of peeling, making it a delightful snack.

Fast-growing Naartjie trees typically reach medium height, but with pruning, they can be kept compact, making them an excellent choice for smaller gardens. Left unpruned, they can grow up to 2-3 meters tall, with a rounded, bushy appearance.

Naartjie trees are also perfect for container gardening, they can be grown on patios or balconies. Their glossy leaves and fragrant blossoms add colour, texture, and a refreshing aroma to any landscape.

Citrus fruits, including the Naartjie, are rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and essential oils, making them a healthy addition to your diet. The Naartjie tree is a low-maintenance, versatile option for enhancing your garden or landscape.

The Sun Trees Team

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