Kara Mandarin Budwood

Citrus reticulata.

King tangor X Owari satsuma.

Fruit medium-large, moderately to slightly oblate; base commonly slightly necked and furrowed; apex flattened or depressed with visible areolar area.  Rind medium-thick, soft in texture, moderately adherent but peels fairly well; surface slightly rough and bumpy; color deep orange at maturity.  Segments 10 to 12, separable without difficulty; axis medium and semi-hollow.  Flesh color deep orange; tender and juicy; flavor rich, sprightly, and distinctive (tart until very mature).  Seeds polyembryonic, numerous and cotyledons pale greenish-yellow.  Very late in season of maturity and ripening (slightly ahead of King).  Retains quality if left on tree but puffs somewhat.

Tree moderately vigorous, spreading and round-topped; similar to satsuma but larger and more vigorous; thornless, with rather stout, spreading and drooping branches; leaves dark green and satsuma-like.  Hardy to cold and productive.  Slight tendency to alternate bearing.

Rootstocks of accession:  Carrizo citrange, C-35 citrange.

Season of ripeness at Riverside, California:  February to April.

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