How to Grow Tangor
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Tangor
Citrus reticulata × Citrus sinensis
treeTangor is a hybrid citrus fruit resulting from a cross between mandarin (Citrus reticulata) and sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), combining the sweetness of oranges with the easy-peeling characteristic of mandarins. The tree produces medium-sized fruits with a distinctive flattened shape and thin, loose skin that separates easily from the flesh. It is prized for fresh eating and is particularly popular in tropical and subtropical regions.
When should you plant Tangor in your zone?
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Example Tangor timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Tangor
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Tangor
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Tangor dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 9-11; frost-sensitive and requires mild winters
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Get my Tangor timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1)
12 monthsYoung grafted tree focuses on root development and canopy growth; minimal or no fruit production
Stake for support, water regularly without allowing waterlogging, prune only to shape the canopy, avoid heavy fertilizing
Juvenile Growth (Years 2-3)
24 monthsTree develops structure and foliage; first flowers and small fruit may appear but are typically sparse
Continue shaping; remove excessive flower buds to encourage vegetative growth; maintain consistent watering and fertilizing
Flowering (Spring, typically February-April)
4-6 weeksFragrant white flowers bloom in clusters along branches; indicates readiness for significant fruit production
Apply balanced fertilizer; ensure consistent water supply; avoid pruning during flowering; monitor for frost if in marginal zones
Fruit Development (Late Spring through Fall)
6-7 monthsSmall green fruits develop from fertilized flowers; fruit gradually enlarges and begins color change from green toward orange/yellow by late fall
Thin fruit if overly heavy to promote larger individual fruits and reduce branch stress; apply citrus-specific fertilizer with emphasis on potassium; maintain steady watering
Maturity and Harvest (Fall through Winter)
3-4 monthsFruits reach full size and develop deep orange color and sweet flavor; ready for harvest from October through February depending on climate
Monitor for fruit drop; harvest when color develops and taste-test for sweetness; avoid frost damage by harvesting before hard freezes
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor new growth; prune infested leaves; use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; avoid excessive nitrogen which stimulates susceptible new growth
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Critical pest in many regions—spray with insecticidal oil or insecticidal soap; remove infested trees if citrus greening is present; use yellow sticky traps to monitor
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Dormant oil spray in winter; horticultural oil during growing season; prune heavily infested branches; maintain tree vigor
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Spray with insecticidal soap; horticultural oil; yellow sticky traps; encourage natural predators
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Water foliage regularly to increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide or horticultural oil if severe; avoid excessive nitrogen
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Prune out affected branches at least 12 inches below visible symptoms; sterilize tools between cuts; remove entire tree if heavily infected; follow regional quarantine regulations
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No cure once infected; focus on psyllid control to prevent spread; remove infected trees; plant only disease-free nursery stock; follow local quarantine guidelines
Uses
Fresh eating and juice
CulinaryTangor is primarily enjoyed as a fresh table fruit due to its superior peeling ease compared to oranges and superior sweetness compared to most mandarins. The juice is also sweet and flavorful, making it excellent for fresh juice, smoothies, and beverages. [source]
Cooking and zest
CulinaryThe zest offers aromatic citrus flavor for desserts, marinades, and savory dishes. The flesh can be used in marmalade, preserves, and baked goods. [source]
Vitamin C and antioxidants
MedicinalLike all citrus, tangor is rich in vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants that support immune function and overall health. Traditional use in some cultures for cough and cold remedies. [source]
Natural cleaning and fragrance
HouseholdThe peel can be used to make natural household cleaners and has a pleasant, uplifting fragrance. Dried peel is used in potpourri and natural air fresheners. [source]
Pollinator and wildlife support
WildlifeTangor flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Mature trees provide shelter and forage for birds and small animals. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Tangor fruits mature from October through February depending on location. Harvest when fruit reaches full orange color and slightly yields to gentle pressure. Taste-test for sweetness—pick slightly immature if you prefer less acidic fruit, or wait longer for maximum sweetness. Fruits do not continue to ripen after harvest, so harvest timing is important. Gently twist and pull fruit from the branch, or use pruning shears to avoid damaging branches. Fruit can remain on tree for several weeks after ripening without significant quality loss. Peak harvest window is typically December through January in most regions.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Tangor' is a portmanteau of 'Tangarine' (mandarin) and 'Orange,' reflecting its hybrid heritage. It was first developed in the 1920s in South Africa and is also known as 'Tangor' or 'Ortanique' in some regions.
- 🌱 Tangor has a unique characteristic called 'loose skin' or 'easy peeling'—the pith between the skin and segments is thicker than in oranges, making it exceptionally easy to peel by hand, which significantly adds to its appeal as a fresh fruit.
- 🌱 In some countries like South Africa and parts of the Mediterranean, Tangor has become a premium fruit crop commanding higher prices than standard oranges or mandarins due to its superior flavor profile and eating convenience.
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