Difference between revisions of "Grapefruit"

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{{Taxobox
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{{SPlantbox
| color = lightgreen
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|familia=Rutaceae
| name = Grapefruit
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|genus=Citrus
| image = Grapefruit_700x490.jpg
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|species=× paradisi
| image_width = 250px
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|common_name=Grapefruit
| image_caption = A basket of grapefruit
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|habit=tree
| regnum = [[Plant]]ae
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|Min ht box=5
| divisio = [[flowering plant|Magnoliophyta]]
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|Min ht metric=m
| classis = [[dicotyledon|Magnoliopsida]]
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|Max ht box=15
| subclassis = [[Rosidae]]
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|Max ht metric=m
| ordo = [[Sapindales]]
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|height_ref=Wikipedia
| familia = [[Rutaceae]]
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|poisonous=interferes with some prescription drugs
| genus = ''[[Citrus]]''
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|lifespan=perennial
| species = ''C. paradisi''
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|exposure=sun
| binomial = ''Citrus paradisi''
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|features=evergreen, edible, fruit
| binomial_authority = Macfad.
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|Temp Metric=°F
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|jumpin=If this plant info box on watering; zones; height; etc. is mostly empty you can click on the edit tab and fill in the blanks!
 +
|image=Citrus paradisi (Grapefruit, pink)-2.jpg
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|image_width=240
 
}}
 
}}
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The '''grapefruit''' (''Citrus [[Hybrid name|×]] paradisi''), is a [[subtropics|subtropical]] [[citrus]] tree known for its bitter [[fruit]], an 18th-century [[Hybrid (biology)|hybrid]] first bred in [[Barbados]].<ref name="Carrington & Fraser">A~Z of Barbados Heritage, 2003, Macmillan Caribbean, ISBN 0333920686</ref>{{clarify|date=May 2010|reason=Why on earth is so much of this directly quoted? This is probably a copyright violation, and doesn't help our readers anyway. Work these facts into the main prose, remove the quotation, and cite this as the source.}}  When found it was named the "[[forbidden fruit]]";<ref name="Forbidden_Fruit">[http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/grapefruit.html Fruits of warm climates]</ref> it has also been misidentified with the  [[pomelo]] or shaddock (''C. maxima''), one of the parents of this hybrid, the other being [[sweet orange]] (''C. × ​sinensis'').
  
The '''grapefruit''' is a sub-tropical [[citrus]] [[tree]] grown for its [[fruit]] which was originally named the "forbidden fruit" of [[Barbados]].<ref name="Forbidden_Fruit">Morton, J. 1987. Grapefruit. p. 152–158. In: Fruits of warm climates. Julia F. Morton, Miami, FL. [http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/grapefruit.html Forbidden Fruit Reference]</ref>
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These evergreen trees are usually found at around {{convert|5|–|6|m|ft}} tall, although they can reach {{convert|13|–|15|m|ft}}. The leaves are dark green, long (up to 150 mm, or 6 inches) and thin. It produces {{convert|5|cm|in|0|abbr=on}} white four-petaled [[flower]]s. The fruit is yellow-orange skinned and largely an [[oblate spheroid]]; it ranges in diameter from 10–15 cm. The flesh is segmented and [[acid]]ic, varying in color depending on the [[cultivar]]s, which include white, pink and red pulps of varying sweetness. The 1929 US Ruby Red (of the Redblush variety) has the first grapefruit [[patent]].<ref name="txsweet">[http://www.texasweet.com/About-Texas-Citrus/Texas-Grapefruit-History Texas grapefruit history], TexaSweet. Retrieved 2 July 2008.</ref>
  
These evergreen trees are usually found at around 5-6 [[meters|m]] tall, although they can reach 13-15 m. The leaves are dark green, long (up to 150 mm) and thin. It produces 5 cm white four-petalled [[flower]]s. The fruit is yellow-skinned, largely oblate and ranges in diameter from 10-15 cm and has an [[acid]]ic yellow segmented pulp. The numerous [[cultivar]]s include the white grapefruit and the red, of which the 1929 US Ruby Red (of the Redblush variety) has a [[patent]]. The fruit has only become popular from the late 19th century; before that it was only grown as an ornamental plant. The US quickly became a major producer of the fruit, with [[orchard]]s in [[Florida]], [[Texas]], [[Arizona]], and [[California]]. In Spanish, the fruit is known as ''toronja'' or ''pomelo''.
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{{Inc|
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Grapefruit (Citrus grandis). Rutaceae. Figs. 975, 1744. Plate L. A large globose fruit having slightly bitter acid pulp; it is used as a breakfast fruit and also for salads and desserts. It is grown in Florida, California, Arizona, and the West Indies, and is now extensively used by Americans. The name grapefruit, under which this fruit is known commercially, seems to have come from the West Indies and owes its origin to the fact that the fruits are often borne in clusters of three or four to twelve or more, much like a bunch of grapes. This fruit is also known as pomelo. The shaddock or pummelo is a distinct strain, not grown for commerce in this country. See Citrus (page 782) and Pomelo.
  
==History==
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Grape fruit trees are large round-topped, with regular branches: lvs. dark glossy green, ovate with broadly winged petioles: spines slender, flexible, borne in the axils of the lvs.: fls. large, white, borne singly or in clusters in the axils of the lvs.; stamens 20-25; ovary globose, sharply set off from the style, which is deciduous: fr. pale lemon-yellow, flattened spheroid or globose, 4-6 in. diam., segms. 11-14, filled with slightly bitter acid pulp; seeds large, flattened and wrinkled; peel ¼ - ½ in. thick, with numerous oil-glands.
The fruit was first documented in [[1750]] by Rev. Griffith Hughes describing specimens from [[Barbados]].<ref name="Q_A:Grapefruit">World Wide Words: Questions & Answers; Grapefruit. [http://www.worldwidewords.org/qa/qa-gra3.htm Abstract]</ref> Currently, the grapefruit is said to be one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados".<ref>Barbados Seven Wonders: The Grapefruit Tree. [http://www.barbados.org/grapefrt.htm Abstract]</ref> It had developed as a [[hybrid]] of the [[pomelo]] (''Citrus maxima'') with the sweet [[orange (fruit)|orange]] (''Citrus sinensis''), though it is closer to the former. It was brought to Florida by Odette Philippe in [[1823]]. Further crosses have produced the [[tangelo]] (1905), the [[minneola tangelo|minneola]] (1931) and the [[Sweetie (fruit)|sweetie]] (1984).  
 
  
The grapefruit was known as the ''shaddock'' or ''shattuck'' until the [[1800s]]. Its current name alludes to clusters of the fruit on the tree, which often appear similar to [[grape]]s. Botanically, it was not distinguished from the pomelo until the [[1830s]], when it was given the name ''Citrus paradisi''. Its true origins were not determined until the [[1940s]]. This led to the official name being altered to ''Citrus &times; paradisi''.<ref name="Texas_Citrus">Texas Citrus: Puzzling Beginnings. [http://www.texasweet.com/texascitrus/grapefruit.html Article]</ref><ref name="Grapefruit_Family_Tree">Grapefruit Family Tree: Origin of Red Grapefruit. [http://primera.tamu.edu/kcchome/webpages/Origin.html Article]</ref><ref name="University_of_Florida">University of Florida: IFAS Extension; The Grapefruit. [http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/CH/CH06300.pdf Fact Sheet]</ref>
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The grapefruit appears to have been introduced into Florida by the Spaniards in the early part of the sixteenth century and until a quarter of a century ago it was grown only by the Florida pioneers. Since its culture has been undertaken on a commercial basis, the acreage planted to this fruit has rapidly increased, 1,061,537 boxes having been produced in Florida in 1909 as compared with 12,306 in 1899, and 122,515 boxes in California in 1909 as compared with 17,851 boxes in 1899. The total value of the crop in 1909, as reported by the Census, was over $2,000,000.
  
==Colors and flavors==
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An excellent appetizer, the grapefruit is the most popular of breakfast fruits. It is also probable that it possesses valuable tonic properties, and it has been recommended by physicians in cases of malaria and biliousness. The sprightly flavor of the fruit, due to its slightly bitter principle, makes the grapefruit one of the most refreshing of all citrous fruits.
Grapefruit comes in many varieties, determinable by color, which is caused by the pigmentation of the fruit in respect of both its state of ripeness and genetic bent.<ref name="WHF"/>
 
  
The most popular varieties cultivated today are [[red]], [[white]], and [[pink]] hues. The family of flavors range from highly acidic and somewhat bitter to sweet and tart.<ref name="WHF"/>
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The grapefruit is more susceptible to cold than ordinary citrous fruits and its profitable culture is consequently restricted to regions below the frost line. The selection of a location is a matter of supreme importance in Florida where the occasional freezes have wrought so much damage in the past. The grapefruit, like most citrous fruits, prefers a light, well-drained soil, sandy or porous, though, because of its dense foliage, it grows better on poor soil than does the orange. The trees must be well fertilized in order to produce the best results, for it must be remembered that the care and fertilizer given are important factors in determining the quality and character of the fruit produced. Budded trees usually begin to bear in three to four years and generally reach full bearing in about ten years. They continue to bear for an indefinite period. The trees may be set from 18 to 25 feet apart, depending upon the stock on which they are grown. The seedlings make excellent stocks because of their well-developed root-systems and are extensively used for this purpose. They are hardier than the rough lemon but not so hardy as the orange. Grapefruits are usually propagated by budding because of the variations in the different varieties.
  
Para-1-menthene-8-thiol, a [[sulfur]]-containing [[terpene]], is one of the substances which has a strong influence on the taste and odour of grapefruit, compared to other citrus fruits.<ref name="Andrea_Buettner_and_Peter_Schieberle">{{cite journal
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One of the most extensively grown varieties in Florida is the Duncan: fruits medium to large, oblate, light yellow; pulp a pleasant bitter acid flavor with few seeds; peel medium, firm; a late bearer, fruits keep well on the tree. The Duncan is one of the hardiest grapefruits, especially when budded on trifoliate orange stock (Poncirus trifoliata). Among others grown in Florida are Hall (Silver Cluster): fruits yellow, pleasantly bitter, globose, medium to large, in large bunches; a heavy bearer. Pernambuco: fruits large, smooth-skinned. Introduced from Pernambuco, Brazil, by the United States Department of Agriculture. Triumph: fruits medium size, heavy, smooth-skinned, not very bitter; a prolific and a strong grower, but rather tender; season early. The Bowen, Excelsior, Josselyn, Leonardy, Manville, McCarty, McKinley, May, Standard and Walters are Florida seedlings cultivated locally in that state.
| title = Characterization of the Most Odor
 
-Active Volatiles in Fresh, Hand-Squeezed Juice of Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macfayden)
 
| author = A. Buettner, P. Schieberle
 
| journal = J. Agric. Food Chem.  
 
| year = 1999
 
| volume = 47
 
| pages = 5189-5193
 
| doi = 10.1021/jf990071l}}</ref>
 
  
==Drug interactions==
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In California one of the best varieties is the Marsh (Marsh Seedless): fruit large (see Fig. 1744), subglobose, light yellow, not very bitter, often seedless, tree low and spreading. This variety originated in Florida but is best adapted to California conditions. The popularity of the grapefruit in California has been increasing during the past few years and it seems certain that this fruit is destined to become one of the standard fruits of that state. It should be noted that in California the grapefruit is really a summer fruit; in Florida it is a winter and spring fruit.
Grapefruit can have a [[List of drugs affected by grapefruit|number of interactions]] with [[drugs]], often increasing the effective potency of compounds.  Grapefruit contains [[naringin]], [[bergamottin]] and [[dihydroxybergamottin]], which inhibit the [[cytochrome P450]] [[isoform]] [[CYP3A4]] in the intestine. It is via inhibition of this enzyme that grapefruit increases the effects of [[buspirone]] (Buspar), [[carbamazepine]], [[caffeine]], several [[statin]] drugs (such as [[simvastatin]]), [[terfenadine]], [[felodipine]], [[nifedipine]], [[verapamil]], [[estradiol]], [[tacrolimus]], [[dextromethorphan]] (significant only at [[Non-medical use of dextromethorphan|recreational doses]]), [[benzodiazepines]], and [[ciclosporin]].<ref name="GSE_Drug_Effect">He K; Iyer KR; Hayes RN; Sinz MW; Woolf TF; Hollenberg PF. Inactivation of cytochrome P450 3A4 by bergamottin, a component of grapefruit juice. ''Chem Res Toxicol.'' 1998 Apr;'''11'''(4):252-9. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9548795&dopt=Abstract Abstract]</ref><ref name="Bailey_DG1998">Bailey DG, Malcolm J, Arnold O, Spence JD. Grapefruit juice-drug interactions. Br J ''Clin Pharmacol.'' 1998 Aug;'''46'''(2):101-10. Comment in: Br J ''Clin Pharmacol.'' 2001 Aug;'''52'''(2):216-7. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=9723817 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Carbamazepine">Garg SK, Kumar N, Bhargava VK, Prabhakar SK. Effect of grapefruit juice on carbamazepine bioavailability in patients with epilepsy. ''Clin Pharmacol Ther.'' 1998 Sep;'''64'''(3):286-8. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=9757152 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Bailey_DG2004">Bailey DG, Dresser GK. Interactions between grapefruit juice and cardiovascular drugs. ''Am J Cardiovasc Drugs.'' 2004;'''4'''(5):281-97. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15449971 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Bressler_R">Bressler R. Grapefruit juice and drug interactions. Exploring mechanisms of this interaction and potential toxicity for certain drugs. ''Geriatrics.'' 2006 Nov;'''61'''(11):12-8. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=17112309 Abstract]</ref> The effect of grapefruit juice with regard to drug absorption was originally discovered in 1989. However, the effect became well-publicized after being responsible for a number of deaths due to overdosing on medication.<ref name="NYTimes">Bakalar, Nicholas. Experts Reveal the Secret Powers of Grapefruit Juice. ''New York Times.'' Published: March 21, 2006. [http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/21/health/21grap.html?ex=1300597200&en=61e834f36b9afac9&ei=5090&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss Article]</ref>
 
heya bitches
 
  
==Health benefits==
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Hybrids.—The tangelo, the result of a cross between the tangerine orange and the grapefruit (pomelo) is a striking new citrous fruit. The Sampson tangelo, obtained by the writer in 1897 by crossing the tangerine with the Bowen grapefruit, is the first of this new group of fruits to be grown commercially. Other tangelos are now being tested. See Tangelo.
Grapefruit is a good source of [[vitamin C]].<ref name="WHF">The World's Healthiest Foods; Grapefruit. ''The George Mateljan Foundation.'' [http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=25 Article]</ref><ref name="Fellers_PJ">Fellers PJ, Nikdel S, Lee HS. Nutrient content and nutrition labeling of several processed Florida citrus juice products. ''J Am Diet Assoc.'' 1990 Aug;'''90'''(8):1079-84. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=2380455 Abstract]</ref>
 
  
The pink and red hues contain the beneficial antioxidant [[lycopene]].<ref name="WHF"/><ref name="Lee_HS">Lee HS. Objective measurement of red grapefruit juice color. ''J Agric Food Chem.'' 2000 May;'''48'''(5):1507-11. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=10820051 Abstract]</ref>
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Diseases.—The grapefruit tree is decidedly resistant to mal-di-gomma or foot-rot and is only slightly affected by scab. It is, however, more susceptible than any other citrous fruit to citrus canker. This disease was first discovered near Miami, Florida, in July, 1913, by E. V. Blackman. It is believed to have been introduced from Japan. In appearance somewhat similar to the scab, this disease has spread over a large area in southern Florida. It is very infectious and has been carried from one grove to another by wagons, birds, and other means. No remedy is known, and Florida growers, in order to check its spread, have been obliged to burn hundreds of infected trees. Investigators differ as to the cause of citrus canker. Walter T. Swingle.
  
Studies have shown grapefruit helps lower [[cholesterol]].<ref name="WHF"/><re
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Grapefruit, or pomelo, in California.
f name="Platt_R">Platt R. Current concepts in optimum nutrition for cardiovascular disease. ''Prev Cardiol.'' 2000 Spring;'''3'''(2):83-87. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11834923 Abstract]</ref>
 
  
==Medicinal effects==
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Pomelos have been grown for many years in California, but, although they succeed admirably, they have not been produced in a commercial way until within recent years. Even at present, the product is only a small fraction of that of the orange and lemon. Perhaps not more than 400 or 500 cars are annually shipped out of the state. All of the Florida varieties have been tested, many of them proving unsuited to the conditions. At present the Marsh, or Marsh Seedless as it is commonly called, is planted almost exclusively. The Triumph and the Imperial are also grown to some extent, while the Nectar and the Clayson are new varieties which are attracting attention.
There is evidence that citrus grapefruit seeds have low levels of [[antioxidant]] properties.<ref name="Extract">Armando, C., Maythe, S., Beatriz, N. P. Antioxidant activity of grapefruit seed extract on vegetable oils. ''Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture'' 1997 Dec;'''77'''(4):463-467. [http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/abstract/10007270/ABSTRACT Abstract]</ref>
 
  
Grapefruit forms a core part of the "[[grapefruit diet]]", the theory being that the fruit's low [[glycemic index]] is able to help the body's [[metabolism]] burn [[fat]].<ref name="Grapefruit_Diet">WMUR Ch. 9: New Hampshire news, weather, sports and entertainment. Researchers Put Grapefruit Diet To Test: Grapefruit Compound Lowers Cholesterol, Helps Regulate Insulin. June 11, 2003. [http://www.wmur.com/health/2262919/detail.html Article]</ref>
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But little attention has been paid to the handling of this fruit in California, and it is undoubtedly true that many of the seedling and miscellaneous varieties which have been inadvisedly put on the market have been very much inferior to Florida-grown pomelos. Usually, on account of the poor varieties grown, California pomelos are shipped mainly to Pacific and intermountam states where they do not come in such active competition with the Florida product. It is undoubtedly true, however, that certain varieties of the pomelo when well grown and intelligently handled are equal to the best Florida product. There is no reason why the production of pomelos in California should not be considerably increased. Growers, however, seem to fear an over-production and new plantings are at present quite small.
  
Grapefruit peel oil is used in [[aromatherapy]] and it is historically known for its [[aromatic]] [[scent]].<ref name="Valerie">Ann Worwood, Valerie. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy (Paperback). ''New World Library'' 1991. ISBN 0-93143-282-0</ref>
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The pomelo, in its general growth, resistance to frost, propagation, culture, fertilizing, irrigation, and the like, is similar to the orange. The season in California is from February 1 until September 1. J. Eliot Coit.
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==Cultivation==
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===Propagation===
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===Pests and diseases===
  
Grapefruit pectin is a beneficial source of soluble [[fiber]] as part of a well balanced, [[healthy diet]].<ref name="Pectin_Benefits">Cerda JJ, Robbins FL, Burgin CW, Baumgartner TG, Rice RW.  The effects of grapefruit pectin on patients at risk for coronary heart disease without altering diet or lifestyle. ''Clin Cardiol.'' 1988 Sep;'''11'''(9):589-94. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=3229016 Abstract]</ref>
 
  
[[Grapefruit seed extract]] has been claimed to be a strong [[antimicrobial]] with proven activity against [[bacterium|bacteria]] and [[fungi]].  However, studies have shown the efficacy of grapefruit seed extract as an antimicrobial is not demonstrated.
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==Varieties==
Although GSE is promoted as a highly effective plant-based preservative by some natural personal care manufacturers, studies indicate the universal antimicrobial activity associated with GSE preparations is merely due to [[contamination]] with synthetic [[preservatives]].<ref name="Study">Sakamoto S, Sato K, Maitani T, Yamada T. Analysis of components in natural food additive “grapefruit seed extract” by HPLC and LC/MS. ''Bull. Natl. Inst. Health Sci.'' 1996, '''114''':38&ndash;42. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=9037863&query_hl=1 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Pharmazie">von Woedtke T, Schluter B, Pflegel P, Lindequist U, Julich WD. Aspects of the antimicrobial efficacy of grapefruit seed extract and its relation to preservative substances contained. ''Pharmazie'' 1999 '''54''':452&ndash;456. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=10399191&query_hl=1 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Contamination">Takeoka G, Dao L, Wong RY, Lundin R, Mahoney N. Identification of benzethonium chloride in commercial grapefruit seed extracts. ''J Agric Food Chem.'' 2001 '''49'''(7):3316&ndash;20. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11453769 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Adulteration">Takeoka GR, Dao LT, Wong RY, Harden LA. Identification of benzalkonium chloride in commercial grapefruit seed extracts. ''J Agric Food Chem.''  2005 '''53'''(19):7630&ndash;6. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16159196&query_hl=1 Abstract]</ref><ref name="Preservatives">Ganzera M, Aberham A, Stuppner H. Development and validation of an HPLC/UV/MS method for simultaneous determination of 18 preservatives in grapefruit seed extract. Institute of Pharmacy, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. ''J Agric Food Chem.'' 2006 May 31;'''54'''(11):3768-72. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16719494 Abstract]</ref>
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Grapefruit comes in many varieties, determinable by color, which is caused by the pigmentation of the fruit in respect of both its state of ripeness and genetic bent.<ref name="WHF"/>  The most popular varieties cultivated today are [[red]], [[white]], and [[pink]] hues, referring to the internal pulp color of the fruit. The family of flavors range from highly acidic and somewhat bitter to sweet and tart.<ref name="WHF"/> [[Grapefruit mercaptan]], a [[sulfur]]-containing [[terpene]], is one of the substances which has a strong influence on the taste and odor of grapefruit, compared with other citrus fruits.<ref name="Andrea_Buettner_and_Peter_Schieberle">Characterization of the Most Odor-Active Volatiles in Fresh, Hand-Squeezed Juice of Grapefruit (''Citrus paradisi Macfayden''), J. Agric. Food Chem., 1999, volume = 47, pages = 5189–5193</ref>
  
==See also==
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==Gallery==
* [[Grapefruit juice]]
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<gallery perrow=5>
* [[Grapefruit spoon]]
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File:Grapefruit 2008-3-3.JPG| photo 1
* [[List of drugs affected by grapefruit]]
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File:Owoce Grejpfrut.jpg| photo 2
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File:Grapefruit and cross section edit.jpg| photo 3
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</gallery>
  
== References ==
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==References==
<div class="references-small"><references/></div>
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<references/>
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<!--- xxxxx  *Flora: The Gardener's Bible, by Sean Hogan. Global Book Publishing, 2003. ISBN 0881925381  -->
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<!--- xxxxx  *American Horticultural Society: A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants, by Christopher Brickell, Judith D. Zuk. 1996. ISBN 0789419432  -->
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<!--- xxxxx  *Sunset National Garden Book. Sunset Books, Inc., 1997. ISBN 0376038608  -->
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
* [http://www.healthcentral.com/peoplespharmacy/pp_guides/PDF/gfruit02.pdf Graedon's Guide to Grapefruit Interactions.]
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*{{wplink}}
* [http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/grapefruit.html Grapefruit from "Fruits of warm climates" by Julia F. Morton.]
 
* [http://www.saalfelds.freeserve.co.uk/chelsea.htm World's Northernmost Fruiting Grapefruit?] in the [[Chelsea Physic Garden]], London.
 
* [http://www.vegparadise.com/highestperch63.html Vegetarians in Paradise/Grapefruit History/Grapefruit Nutrition/Grapefruit Folklore/GrapefruitRecipe.]
 
  
[[Category:Grapefruit| ]]
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{{stub}}
[[Category:Citrus]]
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__NOTOC__
[[Category:Fruit]]
 
[[Category:Flora of Barbados]]
 
[[Category:Tropical agriculture]]
 

Latest revision as of 00:31, 8 June 2011


Citrus paradisi (Grapefruit, pink)-2.jpg


Plant Characteristics
Habit   tree

Height: 5 m"m" can not be assigned to a declared number type with value 5. to 15 m"m" can not be assigned to a declared number type with value 15.
Lifespan: perennial
Poisonous: interferes with some prescription drugs
Cultivation
Exposure: sun
Features: evergreen, edible, fruit
Scientific Names

Rutaceae >

Citrus >

× paradisi >


If this plant info box on watering; zones; height; etc. is mostly empty you can click on the edit tab and fill in the blanks!


The grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi), is a subtropical citrus tree known for its bitter fruit, an 18th-century hybrid first bred in Barbados.[1]Template:Clarify When found it was named the "forbidden fruit";[2] it has also been misidentified with the pomelo or shaddock (C. maxima), one of the parents of this hybrid, the other being sweet orange (C. × ​sinensis).

These evergreen trees are usually found at around 5 – 6 m tall, although they can reach 13 – 15 m. The leaves are dark green, long (up to 150 mm, or 6 inches) and thin. It produces 5 cm in 0 white four-petaled flowers. The fruit is yellow-orange skinned and largely an oblate spheroid; it ranges in diameter from 10–15 cm. The flesh is segmented and acidic, varying in color depending on the cultivars, which include white, pink and red pulps of varying sweetness. The 1929 US Ruby Red (of the Redblush variety) has the first grapefruit patent.[3]


Read about Grapefruit in the Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture 

Grapefruit (Citrus grandis). Rutaceae. Figs. 975, 1744. Plate L. A large globose fruit having slightly bitter acid pulp; it is used as a breakfast fruit and also for salads and desserts. It is grown in Florida, California, Arizona, and the West Indies, and is now extensively used by Americans. The name grapefruit, under which this fruit is known commercially, seems to have come from the West Indies and owes its origin to the fact that the fruits are often borne in clusters of three or four to twelve or more, much like a bunch of grapes. This fruit is also known as pomelo. The shaddock or pummelo is a distinct strain, not grown for commerce in this country. See Citrus (page 782) and Pomelo.

Grape fruit trees are large round-topped, with regular branches: lvs. dark glossy green, ovate with broadly winged petioles: spines slender, flexible, borne in the axils of the lvs.: fls. large, white, borne singly or in clusters in the axils of the lvs.; stamens 20-25; ovary globose, sharply set off from the style, which is deciduous: fr. pale lemon-yellow, flattened spheroid or globose, 4-6 in. diam., segms. 11-14, filled with slightly bitter acid pulp; seeds large, flattened and wrinkled; peel ¼ - ½ in. thick, with numerous oil-glands.

The grapefruit appears to have been introduced into Florida by the Spaniards in the early part of the sixteenth century and until a quarter of a century ago it was grown only by the Florida pioneers. Since its culture has been undertaken on a commercial basis, the acreage planted to this fruit has rapidly increased, 1,061,537 boxes having been produced in Florida in 1909 as compared with 12,306 in 1899, and 122,515 boxes in California in 1909 as compared with 17,851 boxes in 1899. The total value of the crop in 1909, as reported by the Census, was over $2,000,000.

An excellent appetizer, the grapefruit is the most popular of breakfast fruits. It is also probable that it possesses valuable tonic properties, and it has been recommended by physicians in cases of malaria and biliousness. The sprightly flavor of the fruit, due to its slightly bitter principle, makes the grapefruit one of the most refreshing of all citrous fruits.

The grapefruit is more susceptible to cold than ordinary citrous fruits and its profitable culture is consequently restricted to regions below the frost line. The selection of a location is a matter of supreme importance in Florida where the occasional freezes have wrought so much damage in the past. The grapefruit, like most citrous fruits, prefers a light, well-drained soil, sandy or porous, though, because of its dense foliage, it grows better on poor soil than does the orange. The trees must be well fertilized in order to produce the best results, for it must be remembered that the care and fertilizer given are important factors in determining the quality and character of the fruit produced. Budded trees usually begin to bear in three to four years and generally reach full bearing in about ten years. They continue to bear for an indefinite period. The trees may be set from 18 to 25 feet apart, depending upon the stock on which they are grown. The seedlings make excellent stocks because of their well-developed root-systems and are extensively used for this purpose. They are hardier than the rough lemon but not so hardy as the orange. Grapefruits are usually propagated by budding because of the variations in the different varieties.

One of the most extensively grown varieties in Florida is the Duncan: fruits medium to large, oblate, light yellow; pulp a pleasant bitter acid flavor with few seeds; peel medium, firm; a late bearer, fruits keep well on the tree. The Duncan is one of the hardiest grapefruits, especially when budded on trifoliate orange stock (Poncirus trifoliata). Among others grown in Florida are Hall (Silver Cluster): fruits yellow, pleasantly bitter, globose, medium to large, in large bunches; a heavy bearer. Pernambuco: fruits large, smooth-skinned. Introduced from Pernambuco, Brazil, by the United States Department of Agriculture. Triumph: fruits medium size, heavy, smooth-skinned, not very bitter; a prolific and a strong grower, but rather tender; season early. The Bowen, Excelsior, Josselyn, Leonardy, Manville, McCarty, McKinley, May, Standard and Walters are Florida seedlings cultivated locally in that state.

In California one of the best varieties is the Marsh (Marsh Seedless): fruit large (see Fig. 1744), subglobose, light yellow, not very bitter, often seedless, tree low and spreading. This variety originated in Florida but is best adapted to California conditions. The popularity of the grapefruit in California has been increasing during the past few years and it seems certain that this fruit is destined to become one of the standard fruits of that state. It should be noted that in California the grapefruit is really a summer fruit; in Florida it is a winter and spring fruit.

Hybrids.—The tangelo, the result of a cross between the tangerine orange and the grapefruit (pomelo) is a striking new citrous fruit. The Sampson tangelo, obtained by the writer in 1897 by crossing the tangerine with the Bowen grapefruit, is the first of this new group of fruits to be grown commercially. Other tangelos are now being tested. See Tangelo.

Diseases.—The grapefruit tree is decidedly resistant to mal-di-gomma or foot-rot and is only slightly affected by scab. It is, however, more susceptible than any other citrous fruit to citrus canker. This disease was first discovered near Miami, Florida, in July, 1913, by E. V. Blackman. It is believed to have been introduced from Japan. In appearance somewhat similar to the scab, this disease has spread over a large area in southern Florida. It is very infectious and has been carried from one grove to another by wagons, birds, and other means. No remedy is known, and Florida growers, in order to check its spread, have been obliged to burn hundreds of infected trees. Investigators differ as to the cause of citrus canker. Walter T. Swingle.

Grapefruit, or pomelo, in California.

Pomelos have been grown for many years in California, but, although they succeed admirably, they have not been produced in a commercial way until within recent years. Even at present, the product is only a small fraction of that of the orange and lemon. Perhaps not more than 400 or 500 cars are annually shipped out of the state. All of the Florida varieties have been tested, many of them proving unsuited to the conditions. At present the Marsh, or Marsh Seedless as it is commonly called, is planted almost exclusively. The Triumph and the Imperial are also grown to some extent, while the Nectar and the Clayson are new varieties which are attracting attention.

But little attention has been paid to the handling of this fruit in California, and it is undoubtedly true that many of the seedling and miscellaneous varieties which have been inadvisedly put on the market have been very much inferior to Florida-grown pomelos. Usually, on account of the poor varieties grown, California pomelos are shipped mainly to Pacific and intermountam states where they do not come in such active competition with the Florida product. It is undoubtedly true, however, that certain varieties of the pomelo when well grown and intelligently handled are equal to the best Florida product. There is no reason why the production of pomelos in California should not be considerably increased. Growers, however, seem to fear an over-production and new plantings are at present quite small.

The pomelo, in its general growth, resistance to frost, propagation, culture, fertilizing, irrigation, and the like, is similar to the orange. The season in California is from February 1 until September 1. J. Eliot Coit.


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Cultivation

Propagation

Pests and diseases

Varieties

Grapefruit comes in many varieties, determinable by color, which is caused by the pigmentation of the fruit in respect of both its state of ripeness and genetic bent.[4] The most popular varieties cultivated today are red, white, and pink hues, referring to the internal pulp color of the fruit. The family of flavors range from highly acidic and somewhat bitter to sweet and tart.[4] Grapefruit mercaptan, a sulfur-containing terpene, is one of the substances which has a strong influence on the taste and odor of grapefruit, compared with other citrus fruits.[5]

Gallery

References

  1. A~Z of Barbados Heritage, 2003, Macmillan Caribbean, ISBN 0333920686
  2. Fruits of warm climates
  3. Texas grapefruit history, TexaSweet. Retrieved 2 July 2008.
  4. 4.0 4.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named WHF
  5. Characterization of the Most Odor-Active Volatiles in Fresh, Hand-Squeezed Juice of Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macfayden), J. Agric. Food Chem., 1999, volume = 47, pages = 5189–5193

External links