Dancy Tangerine Tree

About the Dancy Tangerine Tree

A heavy producer of tangy, easy-to-peel fruit! The Dancy Tangerine tree—also known as ‘Dancy’ or ‘Dancy Mandarin’—is a compact, evergreen citrus tree with a well-earned reputation among citrus lovers. It’s prized for its juicy, sweet flavor and fragrant blooms, and is one of the most popular tangerine varieties for home gardeners.

Dancy Tangerine is believed to be the result of a cross between two mandarins, both with Pomelo ancestry. This hybrid heritage gives it a rich, well-balanced flavor profile that stands out from other citrus.

The tree is naturally small and adaptable, making it perfect for both in-ground and container growing. It reaches about 10–12 feet tall in the ground with a rounded canopy, or stays smaller when grown in a container. Its dark green, glossy foliage adds ornamental value year-round, and fragrant white blooms appear in late winter to early spring.

Fruit Characteristics

The fruit is small to medium-sized, bright orange, and slightly flattened in shape. Dancy Tangerines are known for their thin, smooth rind that peels easily, and their sweet-tart flavor that’s spicier and less acidic than oranges. They’re mostly seedless and easy to segment—perfect for snacking, lunchboxes, and juicing.

• Ripens in winter (typically December through January)
• Excellent for fresh eating and juicing
• Sweet, aromatic flavor with a hint of spice
• Easy-to-peel rind and few seeds

How to Grow a Dancy Tangerine Tree

Dancy Tangerine trees are relatively easy to grow and low-maintenance. They thrive in full sun and need well-drained soil, consistent watering, and good air circulation. While not frost-tolerant, this variety is more cold-hardy than some citrus, able to tolerate brief dips to around 32°F.

In colder regions, Dancy Tangerine trees grow beautifully in large containers. Just move the tree indoors during the winter and place it near a bright, sunny window.

For best results:

• Use a citrus-specific fertilizer regularly during the growing season
• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
• Protect from frost in Zones below 9 by overwintering indoors
• Prune lightly to shape and maintain airflow

The Dancy Tangerine Tree is a fantastic addition to your edible garden or patio collection. With its compact size, fragrant blooms, and flavorful fruit, it’s a favorite among citrus enthusiasts and beginner gardeners alike.