To Sunkist Sunkist markets many different tangerine varieties from November through April. Compared to oranges, tangerines tend to be smaller in size, and have a looser peel. Actual Tangerines are available at Christmas time, sometimes sold with stems and leaves attached. These include the Fairchild and Dancy varieties.
Mandarins have a light orange color, smooth skins and a complex, sweet flavor.
The Satsuma, Honey and Royal are the three major Mandarin varieties. Tangelos are a cross between a Duncan grapefruit and a Dancy tangerine. They are noted for their juiciness and mild, sweet flavor. The Orlando and the Minneola are the popular Tangelo varieties. They display a bright orange-colored exterior and interior.