The discovery of pink grapefruit dates back to 1892, when New York insurance salesman Kimball Chase Atwood had a vision while on a hunting and fishing trip in Bradenton, Florida. He was captivated by the citrus industry and driven by the desire to create something extraordinary. With great determination, he purchased 265 acres, just a mile east of Palmetto, and set out to plant grapefruit. Over time, Atwood planted 16,000 trees in 96 one-mile-long rows.

Atwood's grove quickly became a success, and little did he know that a twist of fate was about to lead to a significant discovery. In 1910, a grove foreman named R.B. Foster was performing routine sampling. To his amazement, the fruit he opened had a beautiful pink interior. Excited and intrigued, Foster quickly reported his discovery. Atwood's team initially dismissed the pink grapefruit as a mere chance occurrence, believing it wouldn't be in high demand.  

Nearby, Egbert Reasoner, owner of Royal Palm Nurseries, recognized the potential of this unique grapefruit and began propagating the pink variety, leading him to bring it to the masses and turn it into one of the most popular varieties. 

This twist of fate of the discovery of pink grapefruit, often referred to as the "million-dollar mistake," did not harbor Atwood’s success. The Atwood Grapefruit Company grew to become the largest grapefruit grove in the world, producing 80,000 boxes annually. Even King George V of England received an annual gift of Atwood’s grapefruit until his passing. 

Today, Florida Grapefruit lovers around the world continue to enjoy the sweet and vibrant taste of pink grapefruit, thanks to the serendipitous discovery in the early 20th century.

Learn more about our Florida Grapefruit, and discover recipes as well as grower profiles by visiting www.floridacitrus.org

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