Fairchild tangerines are a popular citrus fruit that ripen early in the season, often used for table decorations and fillings during the holiday season. They have a deep orange, pitted skin and are seeded. The stem and leaves are considered lucky in Chinese culture. They are grown in California and Florida and can be grown in warm regions as container plants.
A Fairchild tangerine is a variety of tangerine that ripens earlier in season than many other citrus fruits, making it a popular offering once it reaches market. Fairchild tangerines are especially common during the holiday season when many people use them as fillings and table decorations. Many grocery stores sell Fairchild tangerines when they’re in season from October to January, and they can also be grown indoors in warm regions, provided they’re planted out of the wind and protected from the possibility of frost.
The tangerine was bred by crossing Clementine tangerines with Orlando tangelos, combining the characteristics of both fruits. In shape, a Fairchild tangerine is roughly oblate, with a deep orange skin that is often pitted and pebbly. Tangerines tend to have relatively thin skins and can be somewhat difficult to peel, unlike other tangerine varieties which appear to peel almost. Also, the Fairchild tangerine is a seeded variety, so people need to use caution when eating the sweet and juicy fruit.
Often, a Fairchild tangerine is sold with the stem and leaves still attached. Chinese consumers believe that the stem and leaves are lucky and will bring good luck and prosperity. In some regions, the Chinese call the fruits “stem and leaves” after the green foliage is found attached to them. It is not uncommon to see bags of Fairchild tangerines for sale in Asian markets during the winter months, often at a very low price.
Especially in the USA, Fairchild tangerines are very popular. The trees are heavily planted in California and Florida, two major citrus producers, and the fruit is usually readily available when in season. In some areas, Fairchild tangerines are also canned or candied, so the flavor of the fruit is available year-round. The characteristic pebbled rind of the Fairchild tangerine is often seen in holiday displays in households and businesses of all religious and cultural affiliations.
People interested in growing Fairchild tangerines can either plant the trees directly into the ground or grow them as container plants. The Fairchild tangerine tree does best in USDA zones nine through 11 and in slightly cooler regions, it should be grown as a container plant so it can be moved indoors during inclement weather. Many garden supply stores stock Fairchild tangerine trees, or they can special order trees for customers who want them.
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