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Rainforest Fruit Plants

Tropical rain forests are excellent habitats for fruit production. In a region without periods of frost, dormancy or drought, trees, shrubs and vines flourish, providing the world with some of its most cherished foods. Thanks to advances in transportation and refrigeration, fruits like the banana, which were once considered a novelty, are now a common part of the American diet. More exotic fruits, such as the acai berry, are gradually becoming better known due to their health benefits.

Banana
- Contrary to popular belief, bananas do not grow on trees. They come from the largest herb in the world, which is native to the Malaysian rainforest. Their name comes from the Arabic word for "finger," which described the shape and size of the fruits the Arabs discovered in the tropics of Africa in the sixth century A.D. Today, plantations grow dozens of domestic variations, called cultivars, throughout the world. Most of these are much larger than the bananas the Arabs discovered, such as the 8- to 12-inch Cavendish cultivar commonly sold in grocery stores.
Citrus Fruits
- Most researchers believe that oranges, limes and the world's largest citrus fruit, the pomelo, are native to the rainforests of southeast Asia. These fruits enjoy worldwide popularity, and grow in tropical, sub-tropical and Mediterranean climates throughout the world. Consumers prize oranges and limes as sources of food, juice and oil. Pomelos are the ancestors of the the more popular grapefruit and can grow up to 12 inches wide.
Spices
- Members of Christopher Columbus' crew discovered allspice in the Jamaican rainforests during Columbus' second trip to the Caribbean. Its name reflects its complex flavor, which resembles a mixture of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Peppercorns are native to the jungles of Southern India, and are the source of black and white ground pepper. Although seldom considered fruits, both of these spices come from tropical dried berries.
Exotic Fruits
- In addition to common supermarket items, the rainforest is also a source of many less well known fruits. Soursop, a spiny green fruit also known as guanabana, grows in Central and South America. Camu-camu, a sour Amazonian native, contains 30 times more vitamin C than oranges. Scientists are also studying acai berries, which are known to be high in antioxidants, for possible health benefits. The bacaba, or turu palm, grows ropes of small berries, which are juiced and used in drinks.

Nature