The Dekopon orange is also called 'Shiranui', 'ugly person', or 'ugly tangerine'. This hybrid between Kiyomi and ponkan (Nakano no.3) was introduced from Japan, where it was developed in 1972. After the variety was selected and grafted onto trees in the Chuanxi basin, the Dekopon hybrid bore large fruits. Under regular conditions, the fruit starts to change color in the first week of October, and by the first week of December the fruit has changed color completely. The fruit rind is yellow and slightly coarse. It is easy to peel and the sugar content is extremely high. The fruit is ripe by February or March in the subsequent year.
Dekopon orange plantation
Covered Dekopon oranges
Recently a Dekopon orange dealer located in the Zigong area, Sichuan, stated to an interviewer from freshplaza.cn that the production volume of Dekopon oranges in Sichuan, which is a major production area, has slightly increased in comparison with the previous year. Apart from this, the oranges are sweeter than last year as a result of abundant rainfall all year round. The market has gone through expansion in the last few years, and Dekopon oranges receive more and more attention each year. It is estimated that the next growing season will bring excellent profit to fruit farmers.
The coarse rind of Dekopon oranges
Maturing Dekopon oranges
The Spring Festival falls in the middle of February this year, which is a bit later than in previous years. This has created a fortunate opportunity for the Dekopon oranges that have just arrived on the market. This is particularly true for wholesale markets and supermarkets in first and second-tier cities in China. During the holidays, the exquisitely packaged Dekopon oranges have become an excellent gift to bring when visiting relatives and friends.