The grapefruit ( Citrus × paradisi ) is a semitropical citrus tree known for its relatively large , sour to semi - sweet , somewhat bitter fruit . The internal flesh is segmented and vary in colouring material from pale yellow to dark pink / red . Grapefruit is a citrus loan-blend and is relatively new in the reality of citrus fruit . It ’s believed to have start in Barbados in the 18th hundred as an accidental cross between the unfermented orange and the pomelo ( also know as shaddock ) , both of which were introduce from Asia to the Caribbean .

Grapefruits are considered one of the “ Seven Wonders of Barbados , ” a listing of important historical sites depicting plant species , architecture , and points of interest to educate and make memorable experiences on the tropical island .

The name “ grapefruit ” was reportedly give because the fruit develop in clusters , somewhat resembling grapes on the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree . Some expert also theorise that the fruits may have been name for their tart look , remindful of an unripe grape . There are three main type of grapefruits in the modern - 24-hour interval , generally categorized as pinkish , white , or red - fleshed . Grapefruits are civilise worldwide and are mitt - find fault each time of year , favored for their sweet - tart taste , and are sell for fresh use , cook , and canned applications .

Grapefruits are usually heavy , with a diameter of about 4 to 6 inches . Their skin color ranges from yellow to pink , reflecting the color of the flesh inside which can be pale lily-livered , pinkish , or red . They have a flavor profile that blends fresh and tart with a bit of bitterness . The redder varieties tend to be sweeter .

Grapefruit is often eat fresh , either halved and eat up with a spoon or undress like an orange . It ’s used in salads , juices , cocktail , and even in some mouth-watering cup of tea to add a tart flavor . Its zest can be used in baking or to flavor sweetheart . Citrus paradisi are known for their high vitamin C content . They also provide fiber , atomic number 19 , and are comparatively down in the mouth in nutritionist’s calorie . They ’re often associated with diets and weight loss due to their power to satiate and their depressed glycemic power .

grapefruit grow in warm climate , with major producer include the United States ( in particular Florida and Texas ) , China , South Africa , and Mexico . They prefer subtropical climates where the nights are nerveless but not frigid .

The fruit has become symbolic in dieting civilisation , often linked with various weight deprivation diet like the grapefruit diet , which , however , lacks scientific backing for tenacious - terminal figure efficaciousness . Grapefruit has also inspire various products like Citrus paradisi - flavor soda ash , beer , and perfumes due to its distinctive perfume and taste .

In general , Grapefruits geminate well with avocado , come up H2O , nuts such as Pistacia vera , pine nuts , and Amygdalus communis , herbs include tarragon , mint , rosemary , chamomile , and cilantro , meats such as poultry , squawk , and Pisces the Fishes , fruits such as strawberry , citrus fruit , bananas , pomegranate , ananas , and raspberries , bread , fennel , and vanilla .

Types of Grapefruits

Ruby Red

White Marsh

Pink Grapefruit

Star Ruby

Flame

Oro Blanco

Melogold

Rio Star

Duncan

Thompson ( Pink Marsh )

Cocktail Grapefruit

Hudson

Triumph

Lavender Gem

Henderson

Ray Ruby

Pummelo or Pomelo

Redblush