Description
(Citrus maxima ‘watson’s choice’)
Pomelos (often spelled Pummelo, Pomello, and more…) are the largest citrus around, with some fruit growing up to the size of a rockmelon if the conditions are right.
The Watson’s Choice variety can be a little on the smaller side, but that doesn’t make them any less delightful. Like other Pomelos, they would have a flavour that’s similar to a grapefruit, but often they’re a lot sweeter.
The fruit can sometimes be seedless, if grown on their own or away from other citrus blossoms. The skin and pith (white part around the flesh) is still relatively thick, though it tends to peel away from the flesh quite easily when ripe.
While in the Sydney-region, the fruit can begin to ripen from May onwards, though results will always vary when Mother Nature is concerned.
We usually recommend leaving them on the tree as long as possible to give them the best possible chance to sweeten up, as they do need some pretty consistent warmth for that.
This variety of pomelo will grow over the summer with a lovely green skin that turns to a soft yellow colour when the fruit is ripe.
Inside, the fruit will take on a slightly pink-ish tinge and will be juicy and sweet.
As a tree, they’re a good, vigorous grower with lovely big, deep green glossy leaves that will offer a really nice bit of shade when mature.
Pomelo trees aren’t typically very cold hardy, so it’s not unusual for them to start yellowing a little earlier than other citrus, once the cooler months arrive.
They’d fare a bit better in the warmer regions of Australia, though they can still succeed quite happily in the Sydney region with a bit of protection from cold winds and exposure.
For our citrus care recommendations, please check our Help & Advice page!
