Grapefruit 'Ruby Red’ Tree 15G

Grapefruit 'Ruby Red' – Citrus × paradisi 'Ruby Red' (15 Gallon Pot) available in Jupiter, FL.

The iconic Grapefruit 'Ruby Red' is a citrus classic, prized for its vibrant pink flesh, juicy sweetness, and refreshing zing. Grown in a 15-gallon pot, this well-established citrus tree is perfect for South Florida gardens, edible landscapes, or container growing. With its glossy evergreen foliage, fragrant white blossoms, and reliable harvests, the Ruby Red is both productive and ornamental—a sunny staple in any Florida backyard.

A member of the Rutaceae family and the Dicotyledonae class, Citrus × paradisi 'Ruby Red' is a naturally occurring hybrid that thrives in South Florida’s subtropical climate. It performs best in full sun with well-draining soil and a steady rhythm of care, rewarding growers with large, flavorful fruit typically ready for harvest from late fall into early spring.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Citrus × paradisi 'Ruby Red'

• Common Name: Ruby Red Grapefruit Tree

• Family: Rutaceae

• Class: Dicotyledonae

• Pot Size: 15 Gallon

• Mature Height: 12–20 feet (can be pruned smaller)

• Spread: 8–15 feet

• USDA Zones: 9–11

• Fruit Season: Winter to early spring

• Fruit Type: Medium to large, pink-fleshed grapefruit with smooth yellow skin and minimal seeds

Sunlight Needs:
Requires full sun—minimum 6 to 8 hours daily—for vigorous growth and optimal fruit sweetness. In South Florida, choose a spot with good airflow and full sun exposure.

Watering:
Water deeply once or twice weekly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Consistency is key during flowering and fruiting stages. Avoid standing water or heavy clay soil to prevent root rot.

Soil Requirements:
Prefers sandy to loamy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5). South Florida’s native sandy soil benefits from enrichment with compost or organic matter to improve nutrient retention.

Fertilization:
Feed every 6–8 weeks during the growing season with a citrus-specific fertilizer high in nitrogen and potassium, and include micronutrients like magnesium, zinc, and iron. Stop fertilizing in late fall.

Pest & Disease Tips:
Keep an eye out for citrus leaf miners, aphids, scale, and mealybugs. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap when needed. Promote good air circulation to reduce fungal pressure.

Maintenance & Pruning:
Prune in late winter or after harvest to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Light thinning improves sunlight penetration and airflow, boosting fruit quality.

Special Notes for South Florida Gardeners:

• Performs beautifully in containers, raised beds, or in-ground orchard rows.

• Fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators.

• Container-grown trees can be moved for protection during cold snaps.

• Fruit is ideal for juicing, fresh eating, or adding to salads and cocktails.

Jupiter Farms & Nursery