Pineapple

History and origin

3,500 years ago, the pineapple was already cultivated in southern Brazil, its original cradle. Nicknamed “the princess fruit”, it was discovered by Christopher Columbus in Guadeloupe in 1493 and introduced to Europe, where it became a symbol of wealth. Called “piña” for its resemblance to a pine cone, the pineapple fascinated British royalty, who attempted to cultivate it despite its requirements: high temperatures and long maturation. This exotic fruit, today the second most cultivated after the banana, continues to seduce with its history and its rarity.

Variety and cultivation

Pineapple, a tropical plant, requires acidic (pH 4.5-5.5) and well-drained soil. The production of a fruit takes 14 to 20 months, with a first fruiting in 20 months, then a second after 15 months. Popular varieties include Cayenne Smooth, MD2 and Victoria.

Did you know?

A distinctive sign of wealth and prestige in Europe, the pineapple was then surprisingly rarely consumed. There were even cases of pineapple rental, where a fruit was lent for a few hours for the sole purpose of impressing the guests.