Specialty Citrus Trees

Balang Information The Balang (Citrus medica), belonging to the citrus family, is renowned for its large, yellow, pear-like fruit. What distinguishes the Balang from other citrus fruits is its thick rind, which is commonly used to make a flavorful jam. Both the fruit and its blossoms are highly aromatic, adding to the tree's appeal. This evergreen tree can grow tall, offering shade and ornamental beauty. In the regions of Gīlān and Māzandarān in Iran, the fruit’s rind is used to produce morabbā-ye bālang, a delicious jam made from the skin of the ripe fruit. This traditional jam is cherished for its sweet and slightly tangy flavor. Care Tips: Climate: Balang thrives in warm, Mediterranean-like climates and is particularly well-suited for USDA zones 9-11. It can tolerate mild frost but prefers hot summers for optimal growth and fruit production. Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Adding organic matter like compost will improve soil health and support the tree's growth. Watering: While drought-tolerant once established, Balang trees benefit from regular deep watering during dry spells, particularly in the fruiting season. Pruning: Prune the Balang tree lightly to manage its size and shape, encouraging air circulation and sunlight exposure for healthier growth. Removing dead or damaged branches helps to maintain the tree's vitality. Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for common citrus pests such as aphids, citrus scale, and spider mites. Regular inspection and the use of organic insecticidal soaps or neem oil can help control infestations. Fungal diseases like root rot may affect trees grown in poorly drained soils, so ensure proper drainage. Health Benefits: Like other citrus fruits, Balang contains vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. The rind is also rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestion, and its essential oils have potential antimicrobial properties. Cultural Significance: Balang holds cultural importance in Persian cuisine, where it has been used for centuries to make morabbā-ye bālang. The fruit is considered a symbol of freshness and vitality, often featured in festive dishes and celebrations. Uses: Culinary: The rind of the Balang fruit is its most prized part, often candied or used in jams and marmalades, particularly in Middle Eastern and Persian cuisine. Morabbā-ye bālang is a delicacy often enjoyed with bread or as a sweet accompaniment to tea. The aromatic zest can also be used in desserts, sauces, or baked goods to infuse a citrusy fragrance and flavor. The fruit’s juice, though not as commonly used, can be added to beverages and marinades for its tangy twist. Aromatic Uses: The intense fragrance of Balang flowers and fruit has traditional uses in perfumery and aromatherapy. The blossoms can be distilled into essential oils, while the zest can be dried and added to potpourri.

Valentine Pummelo Tree The Valentine Pummelo is a true showstopper in the world of citrus, prized for its massive fruit, vivid color, and exceptionally sweet flavor. A complex tri-hybrid—crossbreeding the Siamese Sweet Pomelo, the Ruby Blood Orange, and the Dancy Tangerine—it inherits the best traits of all three. With its large, glossy leaves and heavy clusters of "blooming" fruit, this tree serves as a magnificent focal point for any Southern California garden, offering a gourmet harvest that looks as good as it tastes. Climate & Growing Conditions The Valentine Pumsmelo is a sun-loving variety that thrives in the Mediterranean climate of Southern California, performing exceptionally well in Riverside, San Diego, and Orange Counties. It requires full sun to develop its high sugar content and deep red interior pigmentation. While Standard trees can grow quite large, the Semi-Dwarf form is highly recommended for home orchards, reaching a manageable 8–12 feet tall. It prefers well-draining soil and is sensitive to heavy frost, so planting it in a warm, south-facing spot or near a wall that retains heat is ideal for winter protection. Fruit Description The fruit is large and pear-shaped with a smooth, bright lemon-yellow rind. The real magic happens when you slice it open: the interior features vibrant, rosy-red segments that are incredibly juicy and tender. Unlike many traditional pummelos that can be dry or pithy, the Valentine is succulent and firm. It is remarkably low in acid, offering a floral, honey-like sweetness with a sophisticated berry-like undertone inherited from its blood orange parentage. Culinary Uses The Valentine Pummelo is a versatile fruit that shines in both sweet and savory applications: Fresh Eating: The segments are firm enough to be "peeled" out of their membranes and eaten like candy. Winter Salads: The red segments provide a stunning visual contrast when tossed with avocado, mint, and a light vinaigrette. Gourmet Juicing: Its juice is a beautiful pink hue and naturally sweet, requiring no added sugar for a refreshing morning drink. Dessert Garnish: Use the jewel-toned segments to top citrus tarts, panna cotta, or sorbet for a high-end presentation. Household & Health Benefits Vitamin C Powerhouse: One fruit provides more than the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C, supporting immune health and collagen production. Heart Healthy: Rich in potassium and fiber, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and digestion. Lycopene Rich: The red pigmentation in the flesh is a source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its health-boosting properties. Landscaping & Aromatherapy The Valentine Pummelo is an architectural beauty. Its large, dark green leaves create a tropical feel and provide dense shade. In early spring, the tree produces oversized white blossoms that are among the most fragrant of all citrus, releasing a deep, heady perfume that can be smelled from across the yard. Its tendency to produce large, heavy fruits makes it a conversation piece throughout the winter months as the yellow "globes" ripen against the dark foliage. Valentine Pummelo Tree Care & Maintenance Planting: Choose a location with maximum sun exposure and protection from strong winds, which can scar the heavy fruit. Use a high-quality citrus planting mix to ensure the root ball doesn't sit in standing water. Watering: Pummelos require deep watering to support their large fruit size. Water twice weekly in the summer and adjust based on rainfall in the winter. Mulching around the base can help retain necessary moisture. Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced citrus fertilizer (NPK 2-1-1) in late winter, late spring, and late summer. Because it produces such large fruit, it is a "heavy feeder" and benefits from micronutrients like zinc and iron. Pest Resistance The tree is generally vigorous and hardy. Monitor for common citrus pests like the Citrus Leafminer or Scale. Because the fruit is heavy, ensure the tree is pruned to have strong, well-spaced branches that can support the weight of the harvest without snapping. History of the Valentine Pummelo The Valentine Pummelo is a modern triumph of citrus breeding. It was developed by the University of California, Riverside citrus breeding program and officially released in 2009. It was specifically selected for its unique ripening window; because it reaches peak sweetness and its deepest red color in mid-February, it was aptly named "Valentine." It has since become a sensation among rare fruit growers for its unique pedigree and stunning aesthetic.