Citrus paradisi (=Pompelmo)

Citrus paradisi is the botanical name of the grapefruit, a citrus of tropical Asian origin, widely grown for its juicy, distinctively flavoured fruit.

Characteristics
An evergreen tree of medium size, 5-15 m depending on variety and conditions, with a dense, rounded crown, flexible branches and glossy foliage. The leaves are oval to lanceolate, glossy dark green above and paler beneath, aromatic when crushed. White, sweetly scented flowers are borne in terminal clusters in spring, often covering the tree, and are followed by the large round fruits, which ripen in winter and can hang on the tree for months.

Growing and care
Full sun, shelter from cold wind and fertile, well drained soil, ideally slightly acid; it needs regular watering and feeding through the growing season and protection below about -3 °C. Prune lightly after harvest to open the crown.

Uses
Citrus collections, Mediterranean gardens and terraces, grown in the ground in mild areas and in large pots elsewhere, where it can be moved under cover for winter.