What Is Pineapple?

Pineapple, also known as ananas, is a delicious tropical fruit that is surrounded by thorny spikes, topped
with hard, waxy leaves, sometimes up to thirty per fruit. The fruit is up to a foot long and has a
combination of sweet and tart taste.

Pineapple belongs to the Bromeliaceae family and is actually a composite fruit made of coalesced
berries that grow at the crown of a fruiting tree. The name pineapple evolved in the 17th century due to
its structure and appearance being similar to pine cones.

Historically, Hawaii had the largest production of pineapples, but they are now cultivated in large
quantities in Brazil, the Philippines, and Costa Rica. That being said, the fruit is native to Paraguay and
Brazil, and possibly parts of the Caribbean. The exact evolution of pineapples as a popular global fruit is
still unknown, however, it is believed that pineapple was first brought to Europe following Christopher
Columbuss return there in 1493.

The fruiting season of pineapple runs from March until June and each tree can produce a number of
fruits. It is eaten fresh, juiced, cooked and preserved, and its leaves are even used for wallpaper and
ceiling insulation. Pineapple and its juice are enjoyed around the world, even as a popular flavor in
alcoholic beverages, the most famous of which is the tropical drink, pina colada!