Citrus maxima - Pink Pomelo (Fitocella)

Genus of about 12 species of evergreen trees and shrubs, native to the Far East. Citrus maxima is a small evergreen tree which has the characteristic of producing extremely large fruits; up to 30 cm in diameter and 3 kg in weight. The flavor of these fruits is acidic and bitter, they are very juicy and used both for direct consumption and for the preparation of juices. This citrus fruit has rounded, regular foliage and dark green, ovate, persistent leaves with winged petiole. The large, white flowers are isolated or gathered in axillary racemes. The fruit is rounded or pear-shaped with light yellow skin and light or salmon pink pulp. The varieties are generally of American or Asian origin.

Pedoclimatic needs

Pomelos are plants suitable for hot climate areas and do not resist cold and intense frosts; in Italy they are grown in the south, on the islands and where temperatures do not fall below 0°/-2°C. Citrus fruits prefer loose and fertile soils, possibly with a good organic substance content and avoid excessively calcareous soils. Pomelos do not tolerate drought and during the dry season they must be watered and fertilized regularly.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Citrus maxima

Family: Rutaceae