King

The Mandarin King is actually a Tangor, which is a natural hybrid between a Mandarin and a Sweet Orange. Its specific origin is uncertain, but varieties of this group are popular in Japan, China, and Vietnam. In Japan, it is known as Kunembo. Presumably, it arrived in the West via the USA. Its main characteristics are the size of its fruits, which are large for mandarins, and its late ripening period. Its quality is greatly influenced by climatic and cultural factors. It has been used as a parent to obtain commercially interesting hybrids (Encore, Kinnow, Wilking, Kara).

Medium-sized tree with an open and vertical growth habit. Fruits are medium to large, oblate with a slightly depressed apical area. Thick bark, but with variable texture depending on the rootstock it is grafted onto, ranging from smooth to moderately rough. The mature fruit is a slightly yellowish-orange color. The flesh is bright orange, juicy, with a sweet and aromatic flavor, almost spicy. It has seeds.

It can be consumed fresh or in juices, and the grated rind is used in the preparation of desserts.