The star ruby grapefruit is a naturally developed mutating fruit, originally found growing on a "foster" grapefruit tree in San Benito, Texas in the 1930's. Utilizing the budwood from the foster tree was necessary to further propagate the star ruby grapefruit trees. This proved to be a challenge and forced the star ruby into compromising circumstances when the rootstocks continued to be prone to disease in both native and non-native growing regions. In trial growing periods over 25,000 trees were destroyed because of rootrot and ringspot virus.

The star ruby grapefruit is the benchmark standard of grapefruits regarding color, flavor and fragrance. Its rough, globular exterior is yellow-orange with a blush of rose. The peel is bittersweet, substantial and lacking fragrance until it is punctured or zested, when it then releases a bouquet of citrus aromatics. The segmented flesh is aromatically bright, rich ruby in color, laden with juice and its flavor perfectly sweet-tart. The star ruby grapefruit's peel has to be carved from the flesh as it is not a suitable peeling citrus.

Nutritional Value

Grapefruit provides an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.

Serving Ideas

Star ruby grapefruit are the standard pink grapefruit in taste, flavor and appearance. Most often eaten fresh in breakfast preparations, grapefruit may also be used in savory salads, baked dishes, or juiced into cocktails, vinaigrette or frozen desserts. The flesh and juice may also be cooked down into sauces, syrups and jams. Pair star ruby grapefruit with other citrus, tropical fruit, avocados, yogurt, root vegetables, salad greens, raw and cooked fish and fresh herbs.

Geography/History

The star ruby grapefruit tree's origins lie within Texas and the tree fruit continues to thrive in regions throughout the state. In 1977, a disease-free budwood of star ruby was made available to the public, allowing other citrus growing regions to begin cultivating the fruit for commercial markets. A true star ruby grapefruit, though, is only considered such only if it is grown in Texas.

Seasons/Availability

The season for star ruby grapefruits are winter through spring.