Nu Tara Orange Tree

Nu Tara is a local variety of mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco) grown in Nepal, known for its quality and suitability for the mid-hills region. It is a priority fruit crop for the area, with farmers encouraged to cultivate it commercially. Studies have focused on selecting mother stocks from local cultivars like Nu Tara to ensure uniform fruit characteristics and quality.

• Origin: While the exact origin of the Nu Tara variety is unclear, it is likely a type of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), which is native to subtropical Asia.
• Chill Hours: Sweet orange trees, in general, require a certain number of chill hours (hours below 45°F or 7.2°C) during their dormant period to properly break dormancy and ensure good flowering and fruit production. Specific chill hour requirements for the Nu Tara variety are not readily available, but it would likely fall within the general range for sweet oranges.
• Altitude: Orange trees, including Nu Tara, generally thrive at warmer altitudes, with higher altitudes potentially affecting peel thickness.
• Pollination: Sweet orange trees are self-fertile, meaning their blossoms can be pollinated without the need for another tree, though cross-pollination by insects like bees can improve fruit set and yield.
• Tree Size: Nu Tara is likely a medium-sized evergreen tree, reaching heights typical of sweet orange trees (around 15-30 feet).
• Harvest Time: Sweet orange harvest times vary by location and climate, but are often in the winter months (late fall/early winter).
• Usage: Sweet oranges are versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, from fresh eating and juicing to marmalades, desserts, and even flavoring other dishes. 
• Fruit and Flavor: The Nu Tara orange is a sweet orange, meaning its fruit is juicy and flavorful, suitable for fresh consumption, juicing, and various culinary uses.