Star Ruby Grapefruit Tree

Compact Grapefruit Tree Grows Zesty Red Fruits

Grapefruit lovers who prefer tangy citrus appreciate Star Ruby Grapefruits. These large, coral-fleshed fruits grow on moderately-sized trees that are equally at-home on balconies and in small orchards. 

Star Ruby Grapefruits are both decorative and delicious. The citrus rind is a deep yellow on the tree or in a fruit bowl, and when sliced, offers richly-red flesh. The taste of the Star Ruby is slightly tarter than other grapefruit varieties but still sweet enough to be eaten alone (or with a spoonful of sugar!).

Even before the Star Ruby Grapefruit starts producing fruit for the season, you’ll appreciate its year-round versatility and beauty. The tree’s compact size makes it an ideal choice for a patios or backyards, while its densely-growing foliage creates a built-in privacy screen. What’s more, the tree’s vibrant green leaves and small white flowers will always give you something to look at!  

If you’ve never thought you could grow a citrus tree, the Star Ruby Grapefruit will soon change your mind. Make picking fruit from your own tree for breakfast a reality, and order today!

Planting & Care

1. Planting:  Plant your Star Ruby Grapefruit where it can receive full sun. The more sun your tree gets, the more citrus it will produce. If you’re growing your tree indoors for some or all of the year, you may need to use grow lights. 

Choose acidic, well-draining soil in which to plant your tree. If you’re potting in a container, choose one that drains well.

Protect your tree from cold temperature changes as much as possible to prevent it from dropping its leaves. However, the Star Ruby Grapefruit can adapt to occasional frosts and cold temperatures.

2. Watering: Be careful with overwatering. Young trees only need to be watered once or twice per week. Also avoid outdoor sites where water pools and poorly-draining containers. If citrus tree roots are left in standing water, they are susceptible to root rot.

3. Fertilizing: Apply an acidic plant fertilizer to your tree three to four times per year.

4. Pollination: Our Star Ruby Grapefruit Trees are self-fertile, but you can pollinate your indoor trees by hand using a small, dry, fine-tipped paintbrush. Swirl the brush around the center of each bloom and collect the pollen on the brush. Go to the next bloom and repeat the process until every bloom has been treated, and repeat the process daily. Don’t wash the paintbrush until after the blooms have been pollinated. The blooms will fall and the fruit will begin to form.

FAQs

How long does it take for a grapefruit tree to bear fruit?

The time it will take to get fruit off of your tree largely depends on the environment and the age of the tree. Typically, a grapefruit will start regularly producing at 5 years of age if the proper conditions are met. It will take spring until fall for fruits to be ready for harvest.

Where do grapefruit trees grow?

Grapefruits are native to tropical and subtropical areas but will grow in Zones 9-11 outdoors or in a container in colder areas if protected during the winter.

How tall do grapefruit trees grow?

The Star Ruby Grapefruit will grow to be around 20 ft. tall if left unpruned.