Shaddock, a.k.a. Pomelo
This fruit is the parent of the grapefruit, which it resembles to some extent. The fruit is larger and the stalk end is more pointed.
The peel is much thicker, as shown in the photograph, and the segments are separated by very coarse skin which needs to be removed.
The flavour is much less acidic and bitter than a grapefruit. There is less juice and the texture is firmer. There is a subtle citrus background aroma and flavour which some people cannot detect.
The following extract is from "The Library of Entertaining Knowledge: Timber Trees (1829)", pub. Charles Knight, Pall Mall:
- The Shaddock is much larger than the orange both in the tree and the fruit. The tree is both lofty and spreading, and the fruit is about eight inches in circumference - some, indeed, much larger. The shaddock is a native of China and the adjoining countries, where the name of 'sweet ball' is given to it. There are many varieties - some with the pulp white; others with it nearly red; some that are sweet with but little acidity - and some acid, with but little sweetness.
The shaddock derived its specific name from having been first carried from China to the West Indies by Captain Shaddock. It has, however, been neglected there, and now but seldom merits its oriental name of sweet ball. The planters have never been remarkable for their knowledge of science, or their skill in new operations of the arts; and thus, instead of propagating the shaddock by budding, as is done in China, and which is the only way that it can be improved, or even kept from degenerating, they have reared it from seed, and consequently have obtained a harsh and sour sort, which is of very little value.
It is showy, no doubt, from its size, and the appearance of the tree when growing; but it is the least valuable or desirable of the genus* produced in the west.
*orange (sic)
compiled by Nigel Deacon / Diversity website
