AMERICAN GARDENER

Botanical Classification Jabuticaba belongs to the family Myrtaceae and the genus Plinia (formerly Myrciaria), with several species commonly cultivated including Plinia cauliflora, Plinia jaboticaba, and Plinia trunciflora. This evergreen tree is a close relative of guava and is native to Brazil, with the name “jabuticaba” (also spelled jaboticaba) derived from the indigenous Tupi word meaning … Read more

Some fruits have the unusual habit of growing directly on the trunks or large branches of trees, a phenomenon known as cauliflory. This unique adaptation is most common in tropical rainforests, allowing heavy fruits to be supported by the sturdiest part of the tree while making them easily accessible to ground-dwelling pollinators and seed dispersers. … Read more

Fruits that grow in bunches develop in clusters rather than as single fruits. This growth pattern allows many fruits to form from one flowering structure, making the plant more efficient at reproduction. Bunched fruits are often easy to harvest because many pieces ripen together on the same stem or branch. Growing in bunches helps protect … Read more

Fruits that grow on vines are produced by plants with long, flexible stems that spread along the ground or climb on supports such as trellises, fences, or trees. These plants use tendrils or twisting stems to hold onto structures, helping them reach sunlight more easily. Vine-growing fruits are common in both gardens and farms around … Read more

Plants that grow near volcanoes live in some of the most extreme environments on Earth. These areas often have hot soils, volcanic ash, rocky ground, and gases released from underground activity. Despite these harsh conditions, certain plants have developed special adaptations that allow them to survive and even thrive. Volcanic soils can actually become very … Read more

Fruits that are best for summer harvest are typically juicy, sweet, and refreshing, making them perfect for hot weather. Summer is the peak season for many berries, melons, and tropical fruits. These fruits thrive in warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, developing their full flavor and natural sweetness during this time. Summer fruits are often … Read more

Fruits that ripen in spring are some of the first fresh produce to appear after the winter months. They often include berries, stone fruits, and early-season tropical or subtropical fruits. Spring fruits are usually juicy, sweet, and full of vibrant flavors, signaling the change of season and the return of warmer weather. Many spring fruits … Read more

When the temperature drops, it’s easy to assume that fresh, flavorful fruit becomes scarce. But winter actually brings a delightful bounty of seasonal fruits that are at their peak in flavor, nutrition, and affordability. Fruits that are in season during winter are usually hardy and able to grow in cooler climates or be stored after … Read more

Fruits and other edible foods that grow underground develop beneath the soil surface instead of hanging from branches or vines. In many cases, the visible plant grows above ground with leaves and stems, while the edible portion forms below the soil. These underground foods store nutrients that help the plant survive and grow. Many of … Read more

Fruit that grows on the ground develops on low-growing plants that spread along the soil surface rather than on trees or tall shrubs. These plants often produce trailing stems or compact growth habits, allowing the fruit to rest directly on or very close to the ground as it ripens. This growth pattern is common in … Read more