How Tall Will the Ponkan Tangerine Tree Get?
Native to China, the "Ponkan" tangerine tree (Citrus reticulata) is known for its easy-to-peel rind and juicy segments. In fact, the tree's intoxicating spring blooms attract bees and swallowtail butterfly larvae for successful cross-pollination. This particular mandarin cultivar grows to a medium height compared to other citrus varieties, but many factors influence the growing pattern over the years while thriving in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 8b through 11.
"Ponkan" tree varieties grow to a maximum height of 20 feet in ideal conditions. Taller citrus varieties grow slightly higher, to 25 feet tall. The smaller stature for this tangerine tree allows it to be closer to the ground for radiant heat absorption through the dark green leaves. As a result, "Ponkan" trees are extremely cold hardy through tough winter periods. However, lack of regular watering easily stunts this tree's growth, especially when immature. If you keep the root system moist, but not waterlogged, the tangerine tree grows to its maximum height.
Tangerine trees planted closely together or shaded by buildings will not reach their ideal height. Like most citrus trees, "Ponkan" cultivars need full sunlight locations for successful photosynthesis, as the tree uses a lot of energy to develop its sweet fruits. As the tree's canopy spreads horizontally, it may be necessary to prune it if other tangerine plants are nearby. Removing some of the crown provides light penetration down into the lower limbs and along the canopy's sides to the surrounding trees. As a result, your "Ponkan" variety and nearby trees have the light needed for vigorous growth.
This tangerine variety, like other citrus trees, needs a well-draining soil texture to prevent root rot. Adding fertilizer to the soil also helps the "Ponkan" grow to its full height. Young trees need multiple fertilizer applications throughout the year whereas mature trees do not need as much added nutrients. Specially designed citrus fertilizer in a balanced concentration works well for these tangerine varieties and nitrogen is a key element for healthy growth. Amending the soil with organic matter, like compost, also increases growth possibilities for a robust tangerine tree.
Suckers, or vertical shoots, grow from the tree's base or even on the limbs. These parasitic growths hinder fruit-producing limbs and steal necessary nutrients from the rest of the tree. As a result, the misdirected energy to the suckers stunts the tree's growth. Removing these unproductive growths directly at their connection point on the main limb or trunk allows your tree to concentrate its photosynthesizing energy on limb, flower and fruit growth.
Writing professionally since 2010, Amy Rodriguez cultivates successful cacti, succulents, bulbs, carnivorous plants and orchids at home. With an electronics degree and more than 10 years of experience, she applies her love of gadgets to the gardening world as she continues her education through college classes and gardening activities.