DaisySL, New Mandarin Variety Released for Propagation

Filed in archive Food and Agriculture on August 5, 2009

Plant breeders have released a new variety of mandarin orange (or tangerine) for commercial production. Named DaisySL for Daisy seedless, the new fruit is finely textured and juicy, with a rich, sweet and distinctive flavor when mature. Its rind is smooth and thin, and bears a deep orange color.

"We are extremely enthusiastic about this fruit which distinguishes itself by being very low-seeded and moderately easy to peel," said Mikeal Roose, a professor of genetics in the Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, who developed 'DaisySL' along with staff scientist Timothy Williams. "In Riverside, California, 'DaisySL' matures in mid-December and holds its fruit quality characteristics into February. Early January to early February is the best time to pick this fruit from the tree."

DaisySL' will be releases in Sept 2009 for propagation by California citrus nurseries that have purchased licenses to propagate and sell the variety in the state.

Photo credit: T. Williams, Roose lab, UC Riverside.
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