That bright, spiky fruit known as African horned cucumber or kiwano (Cucumis metuliferus) may look bizarre, but it’s a resilient, nutritious gem. Originally from southern and central Africa, kiwano is now grown worldwide—in New Zealand, Australia, California, Israel, and Europe. Yet, production remains most prominent in its native regions. So, which country produces the most … Read more
Bright orange berries dotting thorny shrubs—sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a distinctive super‑berry prized in nutrition, cosmetics, and environmental restoration. But behind its growing global appeal lies a clear leader in production: China. Let’s explore why China dominates this sector, with ~90% of the world’s total acreage, and how the fruit is cultivated, processed, and … Read more
The medlar (Mespilus germanica) is a little-known fruit with a flavor likened to spiced apple‑sauce and an ancient pedigree tracing back to classical civilizations. While once widely grown, it is now considered a niche or heirloom fruit. But one country still leads in production—and that country is Spain. Global Rediscovery of an Ancient Fruit Medlars … Read more
With its deep‑red, bumpy skin and sweet‑tart flavor akin to a mix of strawberry, cranberry, and pomegranate, yangmei—also known as Chinese bayberry, red bayberry, yumberry, or waxberry—is one of East Asia’s most beloved seasonal fruits. Though it has yet to conquer supermarket aisles worldwide, yangmei is a staple of festivals, home gardens, and culinary traditions … Read more
What Is Noni? Noni (Morinda citrifolia) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and Australasia, later spread across the Pacific by Polynesian voyagers . The fruit, rough with a pungent aroma, is often likened to cheese or vomit—yet it remains prized in traditional medicine and specialty food and wellness markets worldwide . Noni … Read more
Though often used more like a vegetable than a fruit, chayote (Sechium edule), also known as mirliton, cho-cho, or chokō, is a versatile staple in kitchens across the globe. With crisp, mild flesh, it lends itself to everything from salads and soups to stir-fries and preserves. But speaking of scale—which country produces the most chayote? … Read more
Tucked away in lush orchards along Spain’s southern coast lies a fragrant secret: cherimoya (Annona cherimola), also known as the “custard apple.” With creamy pulp bursting with banana, pineapple, and strawberry notes, this delicate fruit has captivated gourmands and tropical fruit lovers alike. But beyond its exotic appeal, cherimoya boasts a rich history, global distribution, … Read more
Deep within the lush rainforests of Central America thrives a marvel of nature: Monstera deliciosa. With its distinctive split leaves and exotic fruit—famously tasting like a tropical “fruit salad”—this plant has gained global admiration, both as a decorative indoor favorite and a rare edible delicacy. But when we ask, which country leads the production of … Read more
With its surreal appearance—clusters of deep purple berries growing straight on tree trunks—jabuticaba (also spelled jaboticaba), known as the Brazilian grape, is one of the most extraordinary fruits. While cultivated in parts of South America and beyond, Brazil is overwhelmingly the largest producer of jabuticaba, thanks to its native origin, favorable climate, rich tradition, and … Read more
Tropical fruits are nature’s vibrant, sweet treasures — rich in color, taste, and nutrients. From bananas and mangoes to pineapples, papayas, and guavas, these fruits are grown in warm, humid climates and are enjoyed around the world. The demand for tropical fruits has surged in recent decades, thanks to their exotic flavors, health benefits, and … Read more