A large, vigorous citrus carrying big crops of tangy-sweet fruit that hang well on the tree. Needs warmth and a long season to develop its full flavour and sweetness.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 5 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Grapefruit
Botanically, Citrus x paradisi is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rutaceae family. It reaches around 5 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Grapefruit
Grapefruit suits subtropical, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Grapefruit does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Grapefruit does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Grapefruit in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Grapefruit in the garden
Grapefruit earns its place for edible harvests, a feature or specimen planting and its fragrance.
Companion planting & design
Combine Grapefruit with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Buying Grapefruit
Plant Sale lists Grapefruit as potted plants, advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
