Variety profile

Mapo Tangelo

(Citrus x tangelo 'Mapo')

Documented by Léo — grown in the ground, USDA zone 8b

Origin: Mapo is a famous hybrid created in Italy at the Acireale research center (Sicily) in 1950. Its name comes […]

A pointed orange citrus fruit and a cut half
Photograph: Minneola fruit 3.jpg by Amada44, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Cold hardiness 16°F (−9°C)

Identity

OriginItaly
Genetic originAvana mandarin × Duncan grapefruit hybrid
USDA zone
Cold hardiness16°F (−9°C)
Fruit cold hardiness27°F (−3°C)
GrowthVigorous
Height13 ft (4 m)
HarvestOctober, November, December
SeedsMany
FlavorsTart, Bitter

History & Description

Origin

Mapo is a famous hybrid created in Italy at the Acireale research center (Sicily) in 1950. Its name comes from the contraction of its parents: MA-ndarino (Avana mandarin) and PO-mpelmo (Duncan grapefruit).

Tree description

The tree is very vigorous, with a wide habit and dense foliage. It is known for its sometimes excessive productivity, which requires supporting the branches.

Fruit quality

The fruit resembles a thin-skinned grapefruit, often staying green or yellow-green at maturity. The flesh is yellow-orange and very juicy.

Flavor and ornamental interest

It is very popular in Italy for producing the "Mapo Mapo" liqueur. Fresh, it has a unique flavor, blending the acidity of grapefruit with the aroma of mandarin ("grapefruit-like" but more aromatic).
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"Growing rare citrus means accepting that nature has the last word, while whispering in its ear how to survive the winter."

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