Variety profile

Owari Variegata Satsuma Mandarin

(Citrus unshiu 'Owari Variegata')

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

Origin: This is a spontaneous mutation (sport) discovered on an Owari satsuma tree. It is grown mainly for the unique […]

Orange citrus fruit beside variegated leaves
AI-generated illustration. It does not authenticate cultivar identity or cold tolerance.
Cold hardiness 14°F (−10°C)

Identity

OriginJapan
Genetic originVariegated mutation of Owari satsuma
USDA zone
Cold hardiness14°F (−10°C)
Fruit cold hardiness25°F (−4°C)
GrowthSlow
Height10 ft (3 m)
HarvestJanuary, November, December
SeedsSeedless
FlavorsSweet, Mild

History & Description

Origin

This is a spontaneous mutation (sport) discovered on an Owari satsuma tree. It is grown mainly for the unique aesthetics of its foliage.

Tree description

The tree is less vigorous than the green type, with slower growth. Its foliage is spectacular, mottled with cream yellow and green, making it a superb ornamental specimen all year round.

Fruit quality

The fruits can show slight striping when young but turn orange at maturity. They retain the internal qualities of Owari: absence of seeds and ease of peeling.

Flavor and ornamental interest

Although the interest is mostly visual, the fruit is still good, juicy and sweet. It is the ideal citrus for a pot on a designer terrace, pairing handsome foliage with the indulgence of winter fruit.
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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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