Pineapples

Pineapples are big, bumpy fruits that grow in warm places. They have a tough brown skin and a crown of spiky green leaves on top. Inside, the fruit is bright yellow, sweet, and juicy. Pineapples are a famous symbol of tropical islands. They taste great fresh, in juice, or on top of pizza.

How Pineapples Grow

Pineapples do not grow on trees like many fruits. They grow from a low plant with long, sharp leaves. Each plant makes just one pineapple at a time. It can take up to two years for the fruit to be ready to pick. Hawaii, the Philippines, and Costa Rica grow lots of pineapples.

One Fruit From Many

A pineapple is not really one single fruit. It is made of many small fruits that have joined together. Each bumpy section on the outside is one of those tiny fruits. Pineapples have a special juice that can tingle your tongue. They also have a lot of vitamin C to help fight colds.

Fun Facts

• The top of a pineapple can be planted to grow a new pineapple plant.
• Pineapples got their name because they looked like pine cones.
• Pineapples were once so rare that rich people rented them just to show off.

Did You Know?

Pineapple juice has an enzyme that can break down meat. That is why it is often used to soften meat before cooking.