NAARTJIES
Description:
Locally known as Naartjies, these soft citrus fruits are easy-peel mandarins that offer a refreshing, juicy flavor and a distinct South African heritage. They are ideal for family consumption and increasingly popular in global retail markets.
Taste & Quality:
Flavor Profile: Sweet-tart, aromatic, and juicy
Brix Level: 10–13°
Acidity: 0.9–1.3%
Juice Content: 45–55%
Peel: Soft, easily separable, bright orange skin
Export Advantages:
Early season availability ensures strong market entry
High consumer demand for healthy, snackable fruit
Excellent internal color and rich aroma
Performs well under refrigerated transport conditions
Botanical / DNA & Cultivar Origin:
Mandarins (various hybrids) are typically Citrus reticulata or hybrids between mandarin species and others (e.g. pomelo) in many modern cultivars. “Naartjie” in SA refers broadly to easy-peel, early mandarin types
Origin in South Africa / History:
Mandarins / early soft citrus (‘nartjies’) have been cultivated for many decades; their genetics trace to Asian mandarin origins but adapted locally. SA has many local growers of these early soft citrus varieties, part of the export and local fresh-market supply.
