Thai Tangerine (Small mandarin oranges – Som Cheen) –
Because of the hot tropical climate and abundant rainfall, Thailand is ideal to grow a variety of fruits. Tangerine is a tropical and sub-tropical tree probably native to Southern China, the Philippines and the Malay Archipelago. There are many different hybrids or varieties of Mandarins and the fruit is high in Vitamin C and its juice is a popular drink.
The mandarin is easily peeled with the fingers, starting at the thick rind covering the depression at the top of the fruit, and can be easily split into even segments without squirting juice. This makes it convenient to eat, as utensils are not required to peel or cut the fruit.
The most distinctive feature of all Mandarin oranges is its peelable skin and the best crop is grown in Bang Mot district, the central part of Thailand. Nowadays, tangerine is grown more at Rangsit in Pathum Thani Province, north of Bangkok. The peak season is from October to Feburary. Enjoy!