Citrus - Mandarin Imperial

Common Name:
Imperial Mandarin

Description:
The Imperial mandarin (Citrus reticulata 'Imperial') is Australia's most popular and widely grown mandarin variety, prized for its sweet, juicy flavour and easy-to-peel skin. This early-season variety produces medium-sized, slightly flattened fruit with a thin, deep orange rind that separates effortlessly from the flesh. The fruit has a well-balanced sweetness with a mild acidity, making it perfect for fresh eating, juicing, and lunchbox snacks. Imperial mandarin trees are small to medium-sized, with a dense, bushy growth habit, and they thrive in full sun with well-drained soil. Flowering in spring, they produce fragrant white blossoms that attract pollinators, with fruit ripening in autumn. While partially self-pollinating, nearby citrus trees can enhance fruit production. Compact and versatile, Imperial mandarins are excellent for home gardens, pots, and espalier training.

Form:

• Tree - Small
• Suitable for Pots

Mature Size:

• Height: 2.5–4m (can be pruned smaller)
• Width: 2–3m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• White

Key Attributes:

• Edible Fruit
• Partially Self-Pollinating (benefits from a pollinator)
• Suitable for Pots
• Suitable for Espalier
• Bee Attracting
• Fragrant Flowers
• Heavy Fruiting Variety
• Easy to Peel

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Other citrus varieties (Lemon, Lime, Orange)
• Lavender (attracts pollinators)
• Rosemary (repels pests)
• Marigolds (helps deter pests)
• Borage (improves fruit set)