Honeybells Are A Source of American Pride

Citrus fruit has been grown by different civilizations throughout history and around the world. In many cultures citrus fruits were prized for their sweet taste and health benefits. In some cultures only the very wealthy could afford to eat citrus fruit. Because so many different civilizations grew citrus fruits many different varieties of fruit evolved over the centuries. Of all the modern citrus fruits, one has a uniquely American heritage. Like a second-generation citizen born of immigrant parents, the Honeybell tangelo began and rose to fame right here in the United States. It’s a distinctly American fruit that demonstrates both classic ingenuity and worldwide appeal.

The Origins of the Honeybell

The Honeybell is a hybrid, or combination, of two other kinds of fruits, the Duncan grapefruit and the Dancy tangerine. Farmers working together in Florida in the early 1930s first cross-bred the Honeybell, possibly hoping to combine the grapefruit’s rich and succulent pulp with the easy to peel convenience of the tangerine. The Honeybell was originally known as the Minneola tangelo, named for the town near Orlando where the fruit was first successfully grown. In time, the name Honeybell came to describe the fruit’s small bell-shaped divot on one end, and the name stuck.

Since its release by the FDA in 1931 the Honeybell has steadily grown in popularity, despite a very short growing season and limited availability. Honeybells are available for only a few weeks in January, and are most commonly ordered directly from the orchard or farm where they are grown. Waiting lists sometimes ensue, but many online retailers are able to ship the Honeybells anywhere in the United States as soon as the fruits are ready.

Honeybells Show American Values

The Honeybell is likely one of the most health-giving and nutritionally valuable fresh citrus fruits available. Honeybells, like many of the fresh citrus fruits available in assorted gift baskets, are rich in Vitamins A and C, while also carrying abundant supplies of calcium, fiber, and protein. As America grows more aware and active in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, the Honeybell emerges as a truly American fruit, engineered to be as healthy as possible while still carrying a taste to please everyone.

Honeybells Come In Baskets

Honeybells are available in fresh citrus fruit gift baskets by themselves or matched with other kinds of fresh citrus fruit. By buying a fresh citrus fruit gift basket, you help yourself to great health but also help support the American economy, too.

Taste the Sunshine with Hale Groves

At Hale Groves, we believe the best gifts come from the land, not a factory. For generations, our fruit has been grown slowly under the Florida sun, picked at its peak, and delivered fresh to your door. From sweet Navel Oranges to rare Honeybells, every gift shares the simple joy of real flavor—perfect for holidays, milestones, or everyday moments worth celebrating.

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