Satsuma

A Japanese hybrid of the mandarin, the Satsuma is remarkable for its ability to survive colder weather. Known to withstand temperatures as low as 12°F (-11°C), it also outperforms other sweet oranges in fending off crop-destroying diseases. This natural resistance of the Satsuma may account for its prevalence as an “organic” crop. The one downfall of this sweet and seedless fruit is that its thin skin makes it a little more fragile and susceptible to damage. Although a little more care is advisable when choosing satsumas, shipping practices have improved in terms of the use of small boxes and the individual wrapping of fruit.