Botanical name – Citrus limon ‘Dwarf Mandarin Imperial ’
Common name – Dwarf Mandarin Imperial
Description – Imperial mandarins are a very common commercial variety that’s just as popular for the backyard, too. They originated right here in Australia, too! They started as a chance hybrid in Emu Plains, NSW in 1890, and are now commonly grown outside the country in California as well.
Imperial trees typically have a nice, upright and compact growth habit. The leaves are quite pretty with their narrow, pointed shape and lush green colour. They would make quite a nice feature tree that also happens to provide excellent quality fruit.
As a dwarf tree, the Imperial would grow to around 1.5m tall in the ground and in ideal conditions. It can also live its life quite happily in a nice, large pot.
The fruit has a good, strong and sweet flavour. Its segments can also be quite juicy, too. Imperials tend to have a decently think outer skin and while it’s not really separate from the fruit flesh, it’s still relatively easy to peel.
It’s usually a medium sized fruit, though in heavy cropping seasons, the fruit can be a little smaller. Like many other mandarin varieties, the imperial can sometimes bear fruit in alternating years. This can sometimes be managed by thinning out the crop, especially if it’s a large one.
Flower Colour – White
Flower Period – Autumn
Fruiting – May to June
Location – Grows best in fertile soil in full sun.
Care – Maintain regular watering during establishment and through the warmer growing season. Drought tolerant once established. Watch for pest and treat at the first sign of damage.
Mature height – 1.5m H x 1.5m W
Sizes/Plant height approximate (above pot);
200mm – 40cm
**All plant stock and sizes are approximates and subject to grower availability as per the time of year**
Plant Key
Some quick facts about this plant:
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Full Sun |
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Part Shade |
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Low Watering |
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Ideal for Pots |
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Flowering |
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Fruiting |
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Wild Life Attracting |
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1.5m Wide |
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1.5m High |