Chandler Pummelo

Chandler Pummelo

  • Very large fruit (6–8 inches)
  • Sweet, low-acid, no bitterness
  • Thick rind for long storage
  • Pinkish-red flesh
  • Ornamental tree with large, winged leaves

Botanical Name: Citrus maxima
Format: Grafted pummelo plant

Chandler Pummelo is a large-fruited pummelo variety valued for impressive fruit size and mild, sweet flesh. Pummelos are the largest citrus fruit, and Chandler is one of the best varieties for home gardens. The fruit is teardrop-shaped, 6–8 inches across, with a thick, greenish-yellow rind and pinkish-red flesh. Unlike grapefruit, pummelo flesh is very sweet, low-acid, and never bitter. The rind is extremely thick (1–2 inches), which protects the fruit and gives it a long shelf life. The tree is vigorous, upright, and attractive, with large, winged leaves. A standout ornamental and edible citrus for premium gardens.

Taste note: Sweet, mild, almost honey-like – no bitterness whatsoever.

Key Highlights
Feature Details
Light Full Sun
Tree Spacing 15–20 ft
Tree Height 15–20 ft (can be pruned smaller)
Planting Time Spring
Hardiness USDA Zones 9–11 (protect below 30°F)
Grafting Yes
Fruit Season Winter
Self-fertile Yes

How to Grow

Chandler Pummelo needs full sun, warm sheltered position, and deep fertile soil. It is less cold-hardy than oranges, so plant in a protected location. The tree has a naturally upright habit – pruning can encourage a rounder shape. Water regularly, especially during fruit development (the large fruit requires consistent moisture). Fertilize with citrus fertilizer three times per year. The thick rind makes fruit resistant to pests. Container growing is possible with a very large pot (30+ inches).

  1. Remove Packaging– Unpack carefully.
  2. Check the Soil– Water if dry. Pummelos dislike drought.
  3. Adjustment Period– 3–5 days partial shade, then full sun.
  • Location: Full sun, sheltered from wind
  • Soil & Drainage: Deep, fertile, well-drained. Add compost
  • Feeding: Heavy feeder. Citrus fertilizer plus occasional compost
  • Watering: Regular deep watering. Do not let soil dry completely during fruit growth
  • Pruning: Late winter. Maintain open center
  • Frost protection: Protect below 30°F

Harvest when fruit turns from green to yellow-green and gives slightly to pressure. The thick rind is hard to peel – slice off the top, then score the rind into segments. Eat fresh, segment for salads, or candy the rind.

Grafted Chandler Pummelo shipped in recyclable materials. Free shipping over $50.

📧 info@globalflora.org

Global Flora sources grafted citrus from registered, disease-tested nurseries. All plants are non-GMO.

  • Zones:9–11. Requires warm, frost-free winters.
  • Watering:Consistent moisture is critical for large fruit.