Evolution and Diversity of Grapefruit Varieties in the U.S

Grapefruit cultivation in the United States boasts over 20 propagated varieties. Among the yellow-pulped types, Duncan and Marsh stand out, while Ruby and Webb are the prominent pink-pulped varieties. These varieties highlight the diverse palette of grapefruit available today. Grapefruits are highly versatile and can be easily crossed with other citrus fruits. A notable example is the tangelo, a Florida juice fruit created by pollinating grapefruit flowers with mandarin orange pollen.

Grapefruit itself is a hybrid, born from the sweet orange and pummelo. Its journey to the U.S. began in 1823, when Count Odette Phillippe introduced it to Florida from the Bahamas. It's believed that the fruit originally hails from the West Indies, reflecting its tropical heritage.

Modern cultivation focuses on both traditional and newly developed varieties. The two main western varieties are Ruby Red and Marsh White, both renowned for their sweetness, juiciness, and seedlessness. Recently, Star Ruby and Rio have been developed, offering enhanced flavors and qualities. These advancements reflect ongoing agricultural innovation aimed at meeting consumer preferences. The cultivation and cross-breeding of grapefruits not only preserve their rich history but also ensure a bright and flavorful future for this beloved citrus fruit.
Evolution and Diversity of Grapefruit Varieties in the U.S