This hardy and tasty grapefruit variety is making a comeback in Florida nurseries. Named after its breeder, A. L. Duncan, this tree is the original grapefruit cultivar. Although it fell out of favor during the “seedless” boom, it is once again popular with homeowners and growers alike.
The Duncan grapefruit thrives in Southern Florida gardens and one tree easily produces more than enough fruit for a family of four. Water this tree frequently until well established and seldom thereafter, except during periods of drought. Prune the Duncan grapefruit only to remove low-growing suckers.
The Duncan grapefruit is an evergreen citrus tree that can reach 20 feet in height with an equally wide canopy, although most specimens do not grow to that size. Like most citrus trees, the Duncan is covered with an abundance of dark green and glossy leaves. In late spring to early summer the Duncan blooms, producing numerous white and fragrant flowers. The ripening bright yellow fruit is large and decorative.
Although Duncan grapefruit are not seedless, the sweet taste, firm flesh and juicy texture more than compensate for the inconvenience of a few seeds. People who are familiar with Duncan grapefruit are reluctant to eat any other variety.
