The world of tangelo varieties is diverse and exciting, offering citrus lovers a spectrum of flavors, shapes, and aromas to explore. From the sweet and tangy offerings of Florida to the tropical delights of Jamaica and beyond, tangelos continue to capture the palates and imaginations of people worldwide. As cultivation and breeding techniques advance, we can anticipate the emergence of even more unique and delicious tangelo varieties in the future.
Tangelos are a delightful citrus hybrid, resulting from the crossbreeding of tangerines and grapefruits. With a tangy and sweet flavor profile, tangelos have gained popularity worldwide for their juicy and refreshing taste. While the basic idea behind a tangelo remains consistent, various cultivars and varieties have emerged, each with its unique characteristics. In this article, we'll take a journey around the globe to explore different tangelo varieties that captivate citrus enthusiasts.
Orlando Tangelo (US):
- Originating in Florida, the Orlando Tangelo is a well-known variety appreciated for its vibrant, easy-to-peel skin and a juicy, sweet-tart flavor. It's a cross between a Duncan grapefruit and a Dancy tangerine, offering a unique blend of sweetness and acidity.
Minneola Tangelo (US):
- Also known as the Honeybell, the Minneola Tangelo is a cross between a Duncan grapefruit and a Dancy tangerine. It is renowned for its distinctive bell-shaped appearance and rich, sweet taste. This tangelo variety is a favorite during the winter months, bringing a burst of sunshine to colder climates.
Ortanique (Jamaica):
- The Ortanique, a portmanteau of 'orange,' 'tangerine,' and 'unique,' is a tangelo variety that originated in Jamaica. A cross between a sweet orange and a tangerine, the Ortanique is celebrated for its bright orange color, intense fragrance, and a flavor profile that strikes a balance between sweetness and acidity.
Wekiwa Tangelo (US):
- Developed in Florida, the Wekiwa Tangelo is a hybrid between a Temple tangor and a Dancy tangerine. It boasts a pebbly skin, making it easy to peel, and a rich, sweet taste. This variety is cherished for its ability to thrive in subtropical climates.
Ugli Fruit (Jamaica):
- While not officially a tangelo, the Ugli fruit deserves mention due to its unique parentage involving a grapefruit, a Seville orange, and a tangerine. Grown in Jamaica, the Ugli fruit has a wrinkled, yellow-green exterior and a sweet, citrusy flavor with floral undertones.
Ambersweet Tangelo (US):
- A product of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) breeding program, the Ambersweet Tangelo is a hybrid of a Clementine mandarin and an Orlando tangelo. It is known for its smooth, thin skin and a well-balanced, mildly sweet taste.
Seminole Tangelo (US):
- Developed in Florida, the Seminole Tangelo is a hybrid of a Dancy tangerine and a Duncan grapefruit. This variety is recognized for its deep orange color, easy-to-peel skin, and a flavor profile that leans towards sweetness.
Nova Tangelo (Australia):
- Hailing from Australia, the Nova Tangelo is a cross between a Clementine mandarin and a grapefruit. With a vibrant orange color and a balanced sweet-tart taste, it has gained popularity in the Southern Hemisphere.