The common mandarin, also known as Citrus reticulate Blanco or Ponkan mandarins, is another popular type.

This type is typically associated with Japan, though it also grows readily in the Gulf Coast region and other areas of the Southern United States ( 1, 2). There are several popular types of mandarins, including satsuma mandarins, or Citrus unshiu. Rather, they’re oblong, resembling a sphere with a flattened top and bottom. Though they share an orange exterior, mandarins are a different species of citrus from oranges, which belong to Citrus sinensis ( 3). You may hear mandarins referred to as “mandarin oranges,” but this is not an accurate description. As they ripen, they change from a deep green to their recognizable orange color and grow to a width of about 1.6–3 inches (4–8 cm) ( 1, 2). Mandarins grow on flowering small- to moderately-sized citrus trees. Their peel is deep-orange, leathery, and protects the sweet, juicy segments inside. It’s believed they originated in ancient China, which is how they got their name. Then, of course, we can’t forget our marmalades and marinades, which are often (wisely) created with the somewhat tart Seville orange.Mandarins belong to the Citrus genus. Blood oranges are recognized by the color of their insides, which are a beautiful red, making them a pretty addition in sangria and in fruit salads.Įver heard the saying, “Less is more”? Well, it can be with the lima orange which is virtually acid-free. Valencia oranges are known for their thin skins and tons of juice, which is why they are also very commonly used for juicing. They are also loaded with juice, making them an excellent choice for juicing as well. Tangelos are easy to spot because they are the ones with the little bump. Tangerines are a very sweet and very close cousin to clementine, and tangelos are a hybrid of tangerines and pomelos. Halos are too, although they are a little larger and slightly more acidic. Cuties, technically considered mandarins or clementines, are the perfect kid-sized, seedless snack.

Sweet and delicious, navel oranges are great for snacking, as are easy-to-peel cuties and halos. Take the navel orange, for instance, known for its distinguishing indent that looks a bit like a belly button. Here in “The Sunshine State,” we tend to know our oranges.

Halos clementines