Description

General aspect and origins - Citrus maxima, syn. Citrus grandis, is known as pummelo or shaddock. It is a tall Citrus tree of great dimensions, with big leaves, flowers and fruits, which can be more than 12 in (20 cm) in diameter. Pummelo is native to Southeastern Asia, and is often cultivated in tropical countries. It can be fairly mistaken with the grapefruit, Citrus paradisi, which is thought to be a hybrid of Citrus maxima. The latter fruit is smaller, and more ubiquitous on European and American markets.
Leaves - The pummelo has large leaves, with winged petioles.
Flowers - Flowers are also very large, and like most Citrus flowers, are white, simple and strongly scented.
Fruits - The pummelo, or shaddock, is a fruit that can be up to 12 in (20 cm) in diameter, and can weight a few pounds. The fruit is rounded, flattened or pear-shaped. This large and tropical Citrus is not as ubiquitous on western markets as its close relative, the pomelo. (Citrus paradisi) The pummelo has to be grown in tropical areas so that the fruits loose their bitterness. In that case, the pulp is crisp and sweet.

Culture

Although native to tropical areas, the pummelo may be grown in cooler climates, where negative temperatures may briefly reach down to 20°F to 18°F (-6°C to -8°C). This Citrus tree may thus be grown in sheltered areas of USDA zone 9 and warmer. However, the fruits will probably not rippen in these areas.
Soil - The pummelo needs a well-drained ground.

Propagation

The best varieties of pummelo are propagated by grafting or air-layers. However, this Citrus may also be propagated by seeds or cuttings.