Cox mandarin hybrid
This is a hybrid of Scarlet mandarin and trifoliate orange (P. trifoliata) which was bred by the NSW Department of Primary Industries at Gosford in the early 1960's. It was released in 1995 and is compatible with Eureka lemon (see Figure 1).
It has not been tested extensively under WA conditions. Cox is resistant to phytophthora root and collar rot. Seedlings are moderately vigorous and easier to grow than Benton citrange, making it more nursery-friendly.
Compatibility
Information on performance and compatibility (other than with Eureka lemon) is very limited.
Local experience
Eureka lemons planted on this stock in both Bindoon and West Gingin have grown excellent trees which have produced good yields. At a West Gingin site where trees were grown on bleached sand low in organic mater, Cox had stronger growth than Benton, possibly due to the mandarin component of its parentage being more adapted to poorer soil conditions.
Newhall navel on this stock in Bindoon has produced small to medium sized fruit.
