The Satsuma tree (Citrus unshiu) is a mandarin orange prized for its easy-to-peel, sweet, nearly seedless fruit. Understanding the mature dimensions of this evergreen tree is a practical necessity for any homeowner planning a landscape or considering container gardening. While Satsumas are generally considered small to medium-sized citrus trees, their ultimate growth is not fixed. The final size of a fully grown tree is determined by both its genetic makeup and the environment where it is planted.
Typical Mature Dimensions
A Satsuma tree planted directly in the ground will typically reach a mature height between 10 and 15 feet. The canopy spread is often nearly as wide as the height, usually measuring about 8 to 12 feet across, resulting in a rounded, bushy shape. This compact size makes it one of the more manageable citrus options for residential spaces.
The exact dimensions can vary depending on the cultivar. For example, the popular ‘Owari’ variety often matures on the lower end of this range, generally reaching 10 to 12 feet tall and wide. In contrast, the ‘Brown Select’ cultivar is slightly more vigorous, frequently growing to a height of 12 to 15 feet with an 8 to 10-foot spread. Satsuma trees naturally develop a low-growing, spreading habit, and some varieties, like ‘Seto,’ are described as having a drooping or weeping form.
Key Factors Influencing Growth
The full potential size of a Satsuma tree is heavily influenced by the rootstock it is grafted onto. Most commercial citrus trees are a combination of the fruit-producing scion (the Satsuma) grafted onto a separate root system (the rootstock). The rootstock controls the tree’s eventual vigor and size.
A tree grafted onto a standard rootstock will reach the maximum natural size for the variety, which is the 10-to-15-foot range. However, a dwarfing rootstock, such as ‘Flying Dragon’ trifoliate orange, can significantly reduce the tree’s overall volume. This dwarfing effect can limit the mature height to as little as 4 to 8 feet, representing a size reduction of up to 50 to 75 percent compared to a standard tree.
Environmental factors also play a significant role in determining where a tree falls within its genetic size range. Trees planted in ideal conditions—full sun, well-draining soil, and consistent nutrient availability—will achieve their maximum potential size faster. Conversely, poor soil quality, insufficient water, or exposure to cold temperatures can slow growth, resulting in a smaller, less healthy, mature specimen. Satsuma trees are relatively slow-growing and may take ten years to reach their mature height and full production capacity.
Managing Size Through Cultivation
Specific cultivation techniques can be employed to keep Satsuma trees smaller than their natural mature dimensions.
Pruning
The most direct method is regular pruning, which should be done during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring after fruit harvest. Pruning involves removing overly long or crossing branches to maintain a desired height and shape, often keeping the tree to a manageable 6 to 8 feet.
Container Gardening
Another effective method for limiting growth is container gardening, which naturally restricts the root system. When grown in a large pot, a Satsuma tree’s size is significantly curtailed, often maturing at 5 to 6 feet tall, which is ideal for patios or indoor overwintering. While containers limit height, the tree will still produce full-sized fruit. Selecting a smaller variety, like ‘Owari,’ and combining it with a dwarfing rootstock and container planting provides the greatest control over the tree’s final dimensions.