Dwarf Clementine Mandarin – Grafted

Summary:
The Dwarf Clementine Mandarin is a compact, evergreen citrus tree that produces heavy crops of sweet, juicy, easy-to-peel fruit. Reaching only 1.5–2 m in height, it is ideal for pots, patios, and small gardens. A family favourite, the fruit’s thin skin and rich flavour make it perfect for children’s snacks and fresh eating through winter.

Quick Overview:

• Common Name: Dwarf Clementine Mandarin
• Botanical Name: Citrus reticulata ‘Clementine’
• Origin: Believed to have originated as a natural mandarin hybrid; adapted onto dwarf rootstock for compact growth
• Height & Width: 1.5–2 m high × 1.5 m wide
• Foliage: Dense, glossy evergreen foliage with a neat rounded habit
• Flowers: Fragrant white blossoms in spring, attracting bees
• Fruit: Medium-sized, deep orange fruit with juicy, sweet flesh and easy-peel skin
• Wildlife Attraction: Flowers attract pollinators
• Position: Full sun; requires a warm, frost-free site
• Soil: Fertile, free-draining soil or premium citrus potting mix
• Tolerance: Best in warm climates; tolerates only light frost
• Maintenance: Low; prune lightly to maintain shape and airflow
• Etymology: Citrus is the Latin name for citron; reticulata means “netted,” referencing rind texture; ‘Clementine’ honours Brother Clément, who popularised the fruit in Algeria

Detailed Description:

The Dwarf Clementine Mandarin combines the rich flavour of the full-sized Clementine with the space-saving habit of dwarf rootstock. Its fruit is thin-skinned and easy to peel, making it one of the most popular mandarins for children and families. In winter, the tree produces heavy crops of sweet, juicy fruit, with ornamental value year-round from its glossy foliage and fragrant spring flowers.

Perfect for pots, balconies, and courtyards, this compact citrus tree is also a reliable producer in small gardens. With proper care, it will deliver consistent harvests in winter while remaining manageable in size for easy maintenance and harvesting.

Growth and Maintenance:

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly during dry periods; keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced citrus fertiliser in spring and summer as directed
• Mulching: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping clear of the trunk

Pruning:

• Formative: Light pruning when young to establish shape
• Annual Care: Trim lightly after harvest to encourage airflow and maintain size
• Container Growth: Easily maintained at 1.5 m in pots

Common Uses:

• Compact fruit tree for small gardens
• Container citrus for patios and balconies
• Fresh eating with sweet, easy-peel fruit
• Lunchbox fruit for kids

Planting Benefits:

• Compact Size: Suited to pots, patios, and small gardens
• Family-Friendly: Easy-peel fruit perfect for children
• Winter Harvest: Produces sweet, juicy mandarins in the cooler months
• Dual Purpose: Productive fruit tree with ornamental value