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Kishu mikan image • Photo: Photo Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Kishu Mikan

Citrus reticulata (kinokuni group)

Also known as: Kishū Mikan, Baby Mandarin, Tiny Tangerine, Mini Mandarin, Kishu Mandarin, Cherry Orange
Native to Southern China and Japan

Kishu mikan is a small mandarin orange variety with fruits measuring 25-50 mm in diameter. It features thin, smooth orange skin that peels easily and seedless flesh in some cultivars. The fruit grows in 7-14 segments with imperceptibly thin membranes, offering a juicy, intensely sweet flavor (11-14 Brix) without significant acidity. Its compact size, loose peel, and candy-like taste make it particularly popular with children.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultymoderate
LightFull sun
WaterWater when top 1-2 inches of soil dry out
Humiditymedium

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Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Kishu mikan

Light & Location

Light Requirements

Full sun

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

Water when top 1-2 inches of soil dry out

Humidity Needs

medium humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

50°F - 85°F (10°C - 29°C)

Native Climate

Native to Southern China and Japan

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Well-draining sandy loam with slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0)

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Kishu mikan plants

Grafting onto rootstock or air layering

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Southern China and Japan

Growth Rate

moderate

Mature Size

10-15 feet tall (as citrus tree)

Lifecycle

Perennial

Pet Safety
Unknown
🌸 Flowering

Indoor Blooming

This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.

Bloom Season

Spring

Flower Description

Small white citrus blossoms with five petals, fragrant aroma typical of mandarin flowers

Fun Fact

Kishu mandarins were first commercially grown in the US after UC Riverside staff smuggled fruit home from the university's citrus collection, leading to their popularization by Churchill Orchards in Ojai, California.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Kishu mikan

Root rot
Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, soggy soil, stunted growth

Citrus aphids
Symptoms

Curled leaves, sticky honeydew residue on foliage

Sunscald
Symptoms

Bleached or cracked bark on south-facing trunk surfaces

Varieties

Different varieties of Kishu mikan

Mukaku Kishu
Completely seedless fruit with easy-peel characteristics

Seedless cultivar developed for commercial production

Hira Kishu
Produces fruits at the upper end of the 25-50mm size range

Largest kishu mandarin variety

Community Tips

Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts

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Nurseries Near You

Find Where to Buy Kishu mikan

Discover local nurseries near you that may carry this plant. We'll show you store ratings, hours, and directions.

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