Minneola Tangelo Mandarin Budwood

Citrus x tangelo.

The Minneola Tangelo, or HoneyBell Orange is a citrus hybrid that is a cross between a tangerine and a grapefruit, specifically the Duncan grapefruit and the Dancy tangerine. Known for their sweet and tangy flavour, with a rich and distinct taste, and balanced sweetness and tartness. The fruit is juicy and contains a few seeds. The flavour is similar to that of a tangerine but with a hint of grapefruit.

Typically ripens in the winter months, usually from late December to early February in most regions. The exact timing can vary depending on local climate conditions. The fruit is at its best when it turns bright orange and is easy to peel. The trees are generally considered to be quite hardy and vigorous. Cross pollinators such as Dancy, Clementine or Kinnow are recommended for optimal harvest. They can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, which means they can tolerate a mild frost but are not suitable for regions with severe winters. They prefer a warm, subtropical climate.

Prepared by the Givaudan Citrus Variety Collection at The University of California Riverside.