The pomelo, also sometimes referred to as grapefruit or giant orange, is an evergreen tree up to 15 meters tall with a spreading crown. The broad, pear-shaped or round fruits can grow up to 50 centimeters in size and weigh one kilogram. They are usually eaten as a fruit. For consumption, the rind of the fruit is removed, the 11 to 18 segments are broken up and the tough skin is peeled off.
Spreading the pomelo
This citrus species is cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide, but primarily 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 grapefruit and grapefruit. In this respect, the term "pomelo" often found in supermarkets is actually incorrect, since it is not a pure pomelo, but merely a hybrid. The new breed was developed in Israel in the 1970s and has now spread throughout the "Citrus Belt".
cultivation in the countries of origin
Pomelo thrives best in wet tropical lowland climates with temperatures between 25 and 30°C. In terms of soil conditions, the tree is quite undemanding. The plants are propagated from seedlings, which are usually grafted, or by layering, and grown in gardens or plantations.
Harvesting the pomelo
Depending on the climate, the trees bear fruit all year round or seasonally from the age of six to eight years. These are picked when ripe and can be stored for weeks at cool temperatures. Depending on the variety, the bark of the ripe fruit is green or yellow and smooth. The white albedo can be up to four centimeters thick. The large sap sacs are loosely connected and pale red or yellowish in color. The fruits taste sweet to sweet-sour and slightly bitter. The fruits contain a few large, angular, ovate in outline, pale yellow seeds.
tips and 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.
IJA