The pomelo, sometimes also referred to as grapefruit or giant orange, is an evergreen tree up to 15 meters high with a sprawling crown. The broad pear-shaped or round fruits can be up to 50 centimeters tall and weigh one kilogram. They are usually eaten as fruit. To eat, the fruit rind is removed, the 11 to 18 segments are dismantled and the tough skin is peeled off.
Where does the pomelo come from?
The pomelo is originally from Southeast Asia and is now grown in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide, particularly in South Africa, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, southern China, Florida and Israel. It is a cross between pomelo and grapefruit that was developed in Israel in the 1970s.
Pomelo distribution
This citrus species is cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide, but especially in South Africa, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and southern China. The northernmost growing areas are the southern US state of Florida and Israel. This giant fruit is a relatively new breed that was created by crossing pomelo and grapefruit. In this respect, the term “grapefruit,” which is often found in supermarkets, is actually incorrect, as it is not a pure grapefruit, but rather just a hybrid. The new variety was developed in Israel in the 1970s and has now spread throughout the entire “citrus belt”.
Cultivation in the countries of origin
Pomelo thrives best in rainy tropical lowland climates with temperatures between 25 and 30 °C. The tree is quite undemanding when it comes to soil conditions. The plants are propagated from seedlings, which are usually grafted, or by planting and grown in gardens or plantations.
Pomelo harvest
The trees bear fruit all year round or seasonally from the age of six to eight, depending on the climate. These are picked ripe and can be stored for weeks at cool temperatures. The rind of the ripe fruits is - depending on the variety - green or yellow and smooth. The white albedo can be up to four centimeters thick. The large sap tubes are loosely connected to each other and are pale red or yellowish in color. The fruits taste sweet to sweet and sour and slightly bitter. The fruits contain a few large, angular, egg-shaped, pale yellow seeds.
Tips & Tricks
In Southeast Asia, a decoction is made from the leaves, flowers and bark of the pomelo, which is said to help against colds, fever, swelling and eczema. Essential oil extracted from the flowers is used in perfumes.
