tangerine

Small, thin-skinned variety of the mandarin orange species (Citrus reticulata deliciosa) of the rue family (citrus family). Probably native to Southeast Asia, today it is cultivated in subtropical regions worldwide, especially southern Europe and the southern U.S. The tree is smaller than other orange trees, with slender twigs and lance-shaped leaves. The fruit is slightly flattened at each end and has a loose, reddish orange peel. Easily separated segments of tender, juicy, richly flavoured pulp are abundant in vitamin C. Oil from the fragrant skin is a characteristic ingredient in several flavourings and liqueurs. The tangerine crossed with the grapefruit produced the hybrid known as the tangelo.

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