Star Ruby is one of the most important red-fleshed grapefruit varieties cultivated in Morocco,
prized for its deep ruby-red pulp, high juice content, and balanced sweet-tart flavor. Known for
its smooth peel and rich pigmentation, Star Ruby is favored for fresh consumption and juice
extraction. It is widely grown due to its strong commercial appeal and excellent internal quality.
Type and Characteristics :
• Scientific name: Citrus × paradisi
• Fruit shape: Round to slightly oblate
• Size : Medium to large
• Peel color: Yellow with a smooth texture; blush may appear in exposed fruit
• Flesh: Deep ruby-red, very juicy, sweet with moderate acidity
• Seeds: Few to none
• Juice content : High
• Harvest period: December – March (main season)
• Use: Fresh consumption, juice extraction, export markets
Region of Cultivation :
• Souss-Massa (Agadir, Taroudant the main grapefruit region)
• Gharb (Kenitra, Sidi Slimane)
• Haouz (Marrakech area)
• Oriental (Berkane, though in smaller volumes)
Performs best in warm, sunny plains with controlled irrigation
Soil Requirements :
• Prefers deep, well-drained sandy-loam soils
• Avoids high-salinity or poorly drained soils
• Optimal pH : 6.0 -7.5
Climate and Growing Conditions :
• Climate: Mediterranean to semi-arid
• Temperature: Optimal 20–32°C; sensitive to cold and frost
• Rainfall: 400–700 mm/year with irrigation
• Sunlight: Requires high sunlight to achieve full red pulp pigmentation
• Benefits from warm days and cool nights for color and sugar development
Star Ruby is a premium Moroccan grapefruit variety valued for its rich red color, juicy texture,
and balanced flavor. Grown mainly in Souss-Massa, with additional production in Gharb, Haouz,
and the Oriental, it is well suited for both fresh markets and juice processing. Its strong
pigmentation and excellent taste make it one of Morocco’s leading grapefruit varieties