Valentine Pomelo
Estimated Inventory, 25 lbs : 0
Description/Taste
Valentine pomelos are usually round with a protruding neck at the stem end, similar in shape to a pear. The rind is dark yellow and easy to peel, while the pulp inside is bright red. The fruit has a moderate amount of seeds, and is juicy and sweet especially compared with more acidic citrus. Other pomelos are a light green color when ripe, but Valentines are ripe when their rind is a uniform yellow.
Seasons/Availability
Valentine pomelos are available in the mid-winter through early spring months.
Current Facts
The Valentine pomelo is a newly-developed Citrus maxima hybrid. Pomelos are also called pummelos, Chinese grapefruits, and Shaddocks. This fruit was bred by University of California Riverside Citrus Variety Collection staff, and was named Valentine since it ripens around Valentine's Day in the middle of February, and because a cross section of its red pulp often appears heart-shaped. Its parentage is a Dancy mandarin and Ruby blood orange hybrid crossed with a "Siamese Sweet" pomelo, resulting in a sweet taste, red flesh, and complex flavor. Budwood for gardeners and orchards interested in growing Valentine pomelos was first available from UC Riverside in 2009.
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