Valentine

The Valentine Pummelo is a hybrid developed within the new variety creation program at the University of California Riverside (USA). The goal was to obtain a hybrid similar to the grapefruit but with anthocyanin pigmentation, as opposed to the lycopene typical of pummelos and grapefruits. For this purpose, the "Siamese Sweet" Pummelo, which has a low acid content, was crossed with a hybrid between a blood orange ("Ruby") and the Dancy mandarin. The crossings were carried out in the 1950s, the selection of the hybrid was made in the 1970s, and commercial introduction began in the early 21st century. It is named for the fact that, in California, the optimal ripening occurs around mid-February, close to Valentine's Day, as well as for the red heart shape of the fruit when cut longitudinally.

The fruits are medium to large in size, with smooth skin of intense yellow color, almost orange. Very juicy, sweet, and fruity flesh, with intense hints of red fruits.

Perfect both for fresh consumption, even in salads, and for the preparation of juices.