Pomelo

Pomelo is a citrus tree also known as Shaddock. It is native to Southeast Asia. Other names of the tree include: Chinese grapefruit, Jabong (Philippines), Pu tao you (China), Buntan (Japanese), Jeruk bali (Malaysia), Cimboa (Spain), and Buoi (Vietnam).

Pomelo trees have a rough grayish trunk and can reach 43 ' in height. The dark green leaves are waxy, ovate and broadly winged. Long, sharp thorns run sporadically along branches. The flowers of the Pomelo are white and have a sweet citrus fragrance. The large teardrop shaped fruit can grow up to 12" across and turns from green to yellow when ripe. Edible fruit segments are encased in a thick spongy rind.

Pomelo grows best in full sun and moist soil.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Fruits and leaves used to make essential oils; flowers in perfumery
• Outer rind can be candied; medicinally used for dyspepsia, weight loss, diabetes control
• Fruit is a good source of Vitamin B, calcium and iron
• Fruit is considered good luck in China, especially during the New Year as it symbolizes bounty
• Properties: Anti-dengue, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant