Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) is part of the citrus family of fruits and is thought to be a hybrid of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) and pomelo (Citrus maxima). The first grapefruit tree was discovered in Barbados in the 18th century, and the fruit had yellow pulp with many large seeds at its center. Over time, several varieties have been developed, and today, grapefruits are mostly seedless with pulp ranging from white to reddish pink, depending on the content of lycopene.[1][2][3] The characteristic aroma and bittersweet flavor of grapefruit are thanks to its content of flavonoids, terpenes, furocoumarins, simple sugars, and organic acids.[4]
What is grapefruit?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) is a citrus fruit, likely a hybrid of sweet orange and pomelo; it was first identified in Barbados in the 18th century and now exists mainly in seedless varieties. Its pulp ranges from white to reddish pink, and its bittersweet flavor and aroma arise from compounds like flavonoids and terpenes.