Kishu Tangerines
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Kishu tangerines are small, 2 to 5 centimeters in width, just a bit smaller than a golf ball. They have a slightly squat appearance, with a slight depression at the bottom end. The rind is a glossy, bright orange that fits snuggly around the flesh. The thin rind peels away easily, revealing small, bite-sized sections and a moderate amount of pith. The meaty, juicy segments number between 10 and 12 and are very sweet, measuring 11 to 14% on the Brix scale for sugar content. Kishu tangerines grow on dwarf-sized trees and are harvested by hand due to their size and delicate nature.
Seasons/Availability
Kishu tangerines are available during the winter months.
Current Facts
Kishu tangerines are a diminutive species of citrus, known scientifically as Citrus kinokuni. In Japan, they are known as Kishu Mikan, “mikan” meaning mandarin orange. Different cultivars of the Kishu tangerine are named Hira Kishu, or Mukaku Kishu; the differences indicating whether they are a seedless variety or not. Hira Kishu tangerines are a bit larger and seeded, whereas Mukaku Kishu are entirely seedless. Outside of Japan, they have been marketed as Cherry oranges, Baby mandarins, Tiny tangerines and Nanfeng oranges. Their small size appeals to children and are often marketed to parents as a lunch-box item.
