The grapefruit is not, as the name suggests, related to the grape, but actually to the orange and another citrus, the pomelo. They originated in Barbados in the 18th century, and are a hybrid plant. It is believed that they are a naturally occurring hybrid, rather than one that has been bred, but this is not known for definite.
Grapefruit do resemble an orange, being comprised of lots of individual segments within a thick rind. The taste of the grapefruit itself is acidic, and is often quite sour. Sweeter varieties are also available, in particular the reds and pinks. Normal varieties are usually the whites.
Grapefruit is a popular breakfast fruit, where the fruit is cut in half and the segments are cut out, although it is usually sweetened when eaten like this. There are special grapefruit spoons for eating it in this manner.
Like most fruit, grapefruit is a good source of many nutrients and beneficial supplements. The juice does have some negative reactions with various drugs, though, inhibiting them.
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