description Lee Mandarin Overview
Lee Mandarin is a citrus hybrid released by the USDA in 1959, resulting from a cross between Clementine mandarin and Orlando tangelo. Developed at the USDA research station in Orlando, Florida, this variety is known for its early-season ripening compared to other commercial mandarins. The fruit produces deep orange rind with sweet, richly flavored flesh that typically contains seeds when cross-pollination occurs. Lee trees grow vigorously in warm subtropical climates and show good cold tolerance for a mandarin variety.
While never achieving major commercial success due to seediness, the variety remains valued for its early harvest and distinctive flavor.
help Lee Mandarin FAQ
What are the parent varieties of Lee Mandarin?
Lee Mandarin is a citrus hybrid created from Clementine mandarin and Orlando tangelo. Those two named parents explain why it is not a pure mandarin variety.
When was Lee Mandarin released?
The USDA released Lee Mandarin in 1959. It was developed at the USDA research station in Orlando, Florida.
Why is Lee Mandarin known as an early-season mandarin?
It is known for ripening early compared with other commercial mandarins. That early-season timing is one of the variety's main horticultural distinctions.
Is Lee Mandarin a mandarin or a tangelo?
It is a hybrid involving both types of citrus. Its parentage is Clementine mandarin crossed with Orlando tangelo, and the USDA released it in 1959.
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