A hybrid between the Sweet Orange and a Pomelo, the Grapefruit stands out as one of the most popularly cultivated citrus trees, cherished for its juicy, sweet and sour, flavourful fruits. Grapefruits are a large Citrus, varying in size between a large Orange and small Pomello. Fruits are suitable for both fresh eating, juicing or candying of the aromatic peel. Grapefruits come in a spectrum of colours and flavours, ranging from the subacid, red varieties like the Rio Red to the sweet, yellow-fleshed types like the Marsh. Most Grapefruits have a characteristic slight bitterness which distinguishes them from other Citrus but is not itself unpleasant or unenjoyable. Like all Citrus, Grapefruit are an excellent source of Vitamin C. Similar to all Citrus, Grapefruits thrive in a full sun position with moderate to high rainfall, particularly throughout flowering and fruiting. Although the common Trifoliata rootstock provides much adaptability to varying soil conditions, plants require reasonable drainage and will thrive in fertile, loamy soils. Trees will be adaptable to both moderately acidic and moderately alkaline soils. Grapefruits are believed to be originate from a hybrid in Barbados, an island in the Carribean and are not amongst the most cold hardy of the Citrus genus. Owing also to their Trifoliata rootstock, plants will tolerate light frosts and reportedly to -4 degrees, making them suitable for most of temperate Australia. Grapefruit Trees have an ornamental, evergreen form that is attractive in a garden. When grown on a regular rootstock, plants will normally reach heights of between 5-7m, while on dwarf rootstocks this can stay between 2-3m. Foliage is glossy and dark green, while the simple, four-petalled white flowers are wonderfully fragrant. Trees can be slightly thorny and are also suitable for Espalier. Explore the diverse cultivars available and consider growing a variety not found in markets for the pleasure of relishing your own homegrown Citrus.
All Varieties are Grafted unless noted. Please reach out to us (Contact & Socials) if you come across any broken links, incorrect details, or if you represent an online nursery that sells the products mentioned above.
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