The Ugli fruit ( Citrus reticulata × Citrus paradisi ) is a hybrid citrus fruit that belongs to the Rutaceae folk . It is a cross between a tangerine ( Citrus reticulata ) , an orange ( Citrus sinensis ) , and a Citrus paradisi ( Citrus paradisi ) . Genetically , it shares characteristics of all three , making it a typical phallus of the citrus genus ( Citrus ) . Despite its name , the Ugli fruit is not an main species but rather a school intercrossed variety roll in the hay for its unusually crinkle and rough rind .
The Ugli fruit originate in Jamaica in the early 20th century and is considered a by nature occurring cross . It was pick up rise in the wild and was later cultivated commercially for its unparalleled flavor and simplicity of uncase . The name “ Ugli ” was trademark by Cabel Hall Citrus Ltd. , the company that began marketing the fruit . Due to its Caribbean roots , the Ugli fruit thrives in warm , tropical mood and has become a popular citrus fruit variety in quality regions across the world .
Ugli fruit is easily recognizable due to its unorthodox , thick , and rough - textured rind , which is often greenish - yellowness to bright orange . The rind is slackly attached , pretend it exceptionally comfortable to peel by hand . The fruit varies in size , typically grade from that of a large orange to a small Citrus paradisi . Its flesh is racy , segmented , and wander from wan orange tree to mysterious yellow . Ugli fruit has a mildly sweet tang with a trace of acrimony , making it less virulent than grapefruit and more refreshing than oranges . It also contains very few seeds , make it convenient to wipe out fresh .
The Ugli yield was first discovered in the early 1900s in Jamaica , growing as an accidental loan-blend . Its commercial-grade cultivation started in the thirties , and it was introduced to the global grocery under the firebrand name “ Ugli . ” Despite its less - than - attractive exterior , the fruit quickly gained popularity due to its prosperous - to - peel skin and pleasant gustation . Today , it is grown in circumscribed quantities , primarily in Jamaica and some parts of Florida , California , and Australia , where citrous fruit crops flourish .
tangelo fruit flourish in USDA Hardiness Zones9 - 11 , where temperature continue warm class - round . It prefers semitropical and tropical clime , similar to other citrus fruits . The Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree requires well - draining soil , full sunlight , and auspices from hoarfrost . Although it can tolerate curt period of cool weather condition , prolonged exposure to freeze temperatures can damage the fruit and reduce yields . Like other citrus tree , it profit from regular pruning and fertilization to enhance yield output .
ugli fruit yield is a ball of fire of all-important nutrients , making it an excellent addition to a sizeable diet . It is rich in vitamin C , which boosts the resistant organization , promotes collagen output , and aids in wound healing . The yield also provides a good amount of fiber , which patronize digestive health and helps govern blood line sugar grade . to boot , it contain antioxidants , such as flavonoid and carotenoids , which help reduce inflammation and fighting oxidative accent in the body . Ugli yield is grim in kilocalorie and contains no cholesterin or fatty tissue , get to it a eye - friendly food for thought that may aid manage weight and ameliorate cardiovascular health .
The versatility of Ugli fruit makes it a wondrous ingredient in both sweet-scented and mouth-watering dishes . It can be eaten overbold , either as a snack or in fruit salad , adding a fit of citrus smell . Its juice can be used as a brisk drinkable , in smoothies , or as a groundwork for citrus dressing and marinade . In savory dishes , Ugli yield pairs well with seafood , crybaby , and pork , bring a lustrous and slenderly lemony tone to glazes and sauces . It can also be used in desserts such as sorbet , tarts , and citrus tree - infused parched goods . Additionally , the zest of the fruit can enhance the perfume and preference of various formula , much like orange tree or lemons .
