Mandarin and clementine look almost the same at first glance, but the citrus fruits are different. We show six differences between tangerines and clementines.
Again and again the question arises, what is the difference between tangerines (Citrus reticulata) and clementines (Citrus clementina) is. At first glance, both fruits have a lot in common and can hardly be distinguished from each other in terms of size, color and leaves. The essential differences lie much deeper and only become apparent when the shell is opened. Nevertheless, these are not just two different varieties of a plant species, but even completely different species.
contents
- Difference 1: provenance and origin
- Difference 2: The cores
- Difference 3: The segments
- Difference 4: The shell
- Difference 5: The taste
- Difference 6: The ingredients
- The 6 differences between tangerine & clementine at a glance
- What do tangerines and clementines have in common?
Difference 1: provenance and origin
The tangerine is one of the oldest cultivated plants of mankind. Although it has only been known in Europe for about two centuries, it has been cultivated in China for thousands of years. Its name indicates that it was primarily a fruit of the rich, because mandarins were used in China between the 13th and 13th centuries. and 19 Century high-ranking civil servants titled.
the Origin of the clementine however, is uncertain. Presumably, it also developed for the first time in ancient China. However, it was only discovered as a separate species in 1902 by the Algerian monk Frère Clément, to whom the clementine owes its name. In fact, the clementine is a cross between a tangerine (Citrus reticulata) and bitter orange (citrus x aurantium). This makes it more robust than the tangerine and also somewhat more cold-tolerant.
notice: The so-called satsuma (Citrus × unshiu) looks very similar. This is a cross between a tangerine and an orange, which, unlike the clementine and tangerine, comes from Japan.
Difference 2: The cores
Another difference between citrus fruits lies in the seeds. In contrast to clementines, tangerines have seeds in their flesh, which can interfere with eating. So this difference speaks more for the clementine than for the tangerine.
Difference 3: The segments
Tangerines and clementines also differ in structure. While the flesh of the former is divided into exactly nine segments, the number of segments in clementines is quite variable and varies between eight and up to twelve.
Difference 4: The shell
The peel of the tangerine is very thin. Although this makes it easier to peel, it can also easily lead to bruises and faster drying out. Clementines have a relatively thick skin and therefore good protection. Therefore, you can also store the fruit for up to two months without the risk of drying out, while tangerines only stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Difference 5: The taste
There is also a difference in taste between tangerine and clementine. Tangerines are more aromatic, but can sometimes be a bit tart. Clementines are extraordinarily sweet, but less aromatic than tangerines.
Difference 6: The ingredients
Tangerines can offer more potassium, but also a higher number of calories. Clementines, on the other hand, have a higher vitamin C content.
The 6 differences between tangerine & clementine at a glance
In the following table we have summarized the six differences between clementines and tangerines.
| difference | tangerine | clementine |
|---|---|---|
| provenance and origin | Cultivated in China for thousands of years | Cross between 2 species discovered in 1902 |
| cores | Often many seeds in the pulp | Few to no pips in the flesh |
| segments | 9 segments | 8 – 12 segments |
| Bowl | Slim | Thick, good protection |
| the taste | Very aromatic, sometimes tart | Extremely sweet, less aromatic |
| ingredients | More potassium, more calories | Higher content of vitamin C |
What do tangerines and clementines have in common?
In addition to the differences between tangerines and clementines, there are also similarities. The fact that both the tangerine and the clementine are orange and medium-sized is not the only similarity. They both have the incomparable smell in common, which takes you back to the days of St. Nicholas in your childhood. It is created by the numerous glands located in the shell.
Whether you're a clementine lover or a tangerine lover, you can leave it up to your taste buds. Longer shelf life and seedless pulp are more in favor of the clementine, while the tangerine is easier to peel and is more aromatic. One thing is certain: both fruits are extremely healthy. With their high content of vitamins C and A, as well as nutrients such as magnesium, calcium or potassium, you are doing something good for your body by enjoying the citrus fruit.
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