Thomson Tangelo

Origin

The Thomson Tangelo is an American selection of Floridian origin, from the vast program of hybridization between mandarins and grapefruits begun in the early twentieth century by the USDA. Tangelos, a contraction of tangerine and pomelo, combine the sweetness of mandarins with the juiciness of grapefruits to offer an exceptionally refreshing eating fruit. The Thomson selection, hardier than most commercial tangelos, was developed specifically to extend the growing area toward colder regions. It remains an obscure variety in Europe, absent from classic catalogs except at specialist nurseries such as Vessières. Its entry into French collections testifies to the work of varietal preservation carried out by a few passionate nurserymen who import rare selections from across the Atlantic.

Tree description

A moderately vigorous and productive tree with an elegant semi-weeping habit, reaching 13 ft (4 m) tall at maturity. The evergreen foliage is dark green with leaves slightly broader than those of classic mandarin trees, a legacy of the grapefruit parent. The white spring bloom is abundant and fragrant. Production is regular with little alternate bearing, an asset that sets this variety apart from tangelos more prone to marked vintage-to-vintage swings.

Fruit quality

The fruit is medium-sized, about 7 oz (200 g), with golden yellow skin scented with characteristic honey notes. The flesh is a tender orange-yellow, soft at maturity, very juicy, with few or no seeds. The aromatic signature combines the floral sweetness of mandarins with the juicy freshness of grapefruits, creating a profile unique between the two parents. Peeling is easy once the fruit is fully ripe.

Flavor and ornamental interest

The Thomson Tangelo is enjoyed fresh to take full advantage of its honeyed aromas, especially as a dessert fruit or in a winter fruit salad. Its very abundant juice is exceptional at breakfast and in cocktails. As an ornamental, its slightly weeping habit loaded with golden fruits between October and December makes it a very attractive decorative tree. Its hardiness at 16°F (−9°C), one of the best among tangelos, opens its cultivation to gardeners in the Mediterranean and Atlantic zone 8b.