Pomelo (Citrus grandis)

Also known as: Jabong, Pumello, Shaddock

The pomelo (*Citrus grandis*) is the largest citrus fruit in the world, known for its greenish hue and thick, tough rind that can be challenging to peel. Originating from tropical and subtropical regions, this fruit is the ancestor of the grapefruit (*Citrus x paradisi*). Despite having relatively little juice, pomelos are popular in Southeast Asia.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Pomelo

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

5 m to 15 m

Spread

3 m

Leaf Color

Green Purple

Flower Size

1.5 cm to 2 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Pomelo

Quickly Identify Pomelo

Pomelo trees are recognizable by their large, thick-skinned fruits, which can weigh up to 2 kilograms or more. The leaves are typically large and oval-shaped, with a noticeable winged petiole. The flowers are white and fragrant. When identifying the fruit, look for its characteristic size and the thick, spongy rind that comes off easily once cut.

Scientific Classification of Pomelo

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Sapindales

Family

Rue

Genus

Citrus

Species

Pomelo

Planting and Growing of Pomelo

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Pomelo?

For Citrus grandis, ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. During watering, aim for approximately 500ml, adjusting based on the soil’s drainage and the season. Always water until you see slight drainage from the bottom to confirm thorough soil saturation.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Pomelo? ›

What should I do if my Pomelo is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Pomelo? ›

How to save an overwatered Pomelo? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pomelo?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Citrus grandis benefits most from full sun to partial sun exposure. Optimal sunlight enhances photosynthesis efficiency, contributing to robust plant structure and fruitful productivity.

What is the best lighting condition for Citrus grandis? ›

How can I provide optimal lighting for my plant? ›

What benefits arise from adequate lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pomelo?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Citrus grandis thrives best in an environment where the temperature is kept between 68°F and 86°F. This range provides the perfect warmth that the plant requires to photosynthesize efficiently, grow well, and ultimately produce healthy fruit. Maintaining these temperatures will ensure optimal growth and development of the plant.

What Soil is Best for Pomelo?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Citrus grandis thrives in well-drained soil, as it helps prevent root rot and allows for efficient nutrient uptake. Such conditions promote healthy growth and robust fruit production. Soil that is rich in organic matter supplies essential nutrients for Citrus grandis. This nutritional abundance is crucial for robust foliage, vigorous growth, and abundant flowering. Maintaining moderate moisture levels in the soil is essential for Citrus grandis. This balance prevents water stress and supports sustained growth throughout the growing season. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Pomelo?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Citrus grandis, use approximately one-half pound of balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) per year of the tree's age, up to a maximum of 10 pounds for mature trees. Young trees benefit from a lighter application to avoid root burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Pomelo?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by evaluating the overall structure of the citrus tree. Look for any crossing branches, as they can rub against each other causing wounds that invite disease. Begin your pruning by eliminating any dead or diseased branches. These parts are typically less productive and can sap energy from healthier branches. Shape the tree by cutting back branches that extend outside the desired shape. Thin out dense areas to improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy. Cut just above leaf nodes to promote new branches, making sure to maintain a balance among different parts of the tree to distribute growth evenly. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Pomelo plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

To propagate Citrus grandis from seeds, start by extracting seeds from a fresh fruit and washing them to remove pulp. Allow seeds to dry for a few hours to a day before sowing them in prepared seed trays.

For cutting propagation, select healthy, semi-hardwood stems from the citrus plant. Cut sections that are about 4-6 inches long, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting.

Grafting is a common method for propagating Citrus grandis, especially to maintain specific desirable traits. Use techniques such as T-budding or cleft grafting during early spring when the plant is actively growing.

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How to Repot Pomelo plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Watch for signs like roots emerging from the drainage holes or the soil drying out too quickly. These indicate that your Citrus grandis has outgrown its pot and needs more room to flourish. Spring is ideal for this, as the plant will have optimal growing conditions to acclimate.

Select a pot that's 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. It should have ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which causes root rot. Using a slightly larger pot helps maintain balanced moisture levels without overwhelming the plant's roots with too much soil.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix with a slight acidity to cater to Citrus grandis' needs. This type of soil allows excess water to escape while retaining enough moisture, ensuring a healthy root system that supports robust growth and fruit production.

Toxicity of Pomelo

Is Pomelo toxic to cat?

Pomelo presents a moderate toxicity risk for cats. Each component of this plant can be dangerous if ingested, so cat owners must be vigilant to avoid consumption. When poisoned, a cat might show indications of physical distress that necessitate immediate veterinary intervention. Timely treatment at a veterinary clinic is essential to alleviate the effects of the toxin found in pomelo.

Is Pomelo toxic to dog?

The pomelo plant species is regarded as having a moderate toxicity level for dogs. If a dog consumes any portion of this plant, there exists a risk of toxicity since every part is harmful. Dogs may become poisoned by ingesting fragments of the plant, which can happen if they encounter fallen leaves or fruit, or if they gnaw on branches or stems. Following ingestion, signs of poisoning may appear, which might include gastrointestinal disturbances, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more severe reactions based on the quantity ingested. Should a dog display any unusual behavior or distress after interacting with pomelo, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary attention to secure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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