There are many kinds of fruit in the world and everyone has their favorites. But how much do you really know about these delicious foods? Our complete guide will walk you through the 20 most popular types of fruit and give you a few tidbits about each one.
4 Classifications of Fruits
Fruits are classified by how they develop. The process involves the flower of a plant and its classification is based on what parts of the flower are used in the process.
A lot of what goes into these classifications can be a bit confusing as it requires very specific botanical knowledge. Also note that while these categories exist, many fruits don’t easily fall into one or the other.
Simple
As its name suggests, Simple fruits are quite simple. They grow from one ovary in a flower that has only one pistil, which is the central part that germinates.
There are many types of Simple fruits and they usually get classified as other types of food than fruit. These include hazelnuts, peas, and peanuts.
Aggregate
Becoming a bit more complex, Aggregate fruits come from flowers that have carpels inside the pistil that are not joined.
Berries, also known as bramble fruits, such as raspberries and blackberries, fall intp this category.
Multiple
Fruits that form in a cluster, as a result of flowers that are in a cluster, are called Multiple fruits.
Pineapples and figs are examples of this category.
Accessory
Within the category of Accessory fruit are many layers. In its simplest terms, Accessory fruits include some part of their edible flesh that is not created by the ovary of a flower.
Apples and pears are common examples.
How many types of fruits are there?
If you were to name all the types of fruit you know, you might be able to make it to 50. While that would be impressive, when you think about how many types there are all over the world, you still will have a long way to go to reach the end.
There are over 2000 types of fruit. Many fruits are grown in specific regions and are unavailable at local produce stores. If you wanted to try all 2000 types, you’d have to take a culinary trip around the world. Actually, that sounds pretty appealing.
20 Popular Types of Fruit
Bananas
Bananas are popular all over the world. As they ripen, they produce more sugar content, and everyone has a favorite preference about how ripe they should be eaten.
While there are many varieties of bananas, we really only eat the Cavendish variety. All bananas are actually clones of the same plant as this fruit doesn’t have seeds.
Bananas are only grown in tropical countries near the equator. They are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
Apples
Apples are some of the most popular fruits for a reason. They can be eaten fresh off the tree, come in many different varieties, and are sweet enough to tempt anyone.
The versatility of apples is quite amazing. They can be eaten raw or cooked in both sweet and savory dishes.
Apples are commonly grown in North America, Europe, and Central Asia. They are incredibly high in vitamin C and are an excellent source of fiber.
Strawberries
Strawberries are some of the most popular berries and for good reason. They are soft, delicate, and oh so sweet.
Eaten fresh, in baking, or even in a jam form, there’s no wrong way to eat strawberries.
Strawberries are commonly grown in Europe and North America. They are a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
Grapes
Grapes are so readily available they are often overlooked when it comes to fruit. They can be eaten raw, cooked, left to dry into raisins, and even made into wine. Really, there’s nothing grapes can’t do.
Among grapes there are many varieties. Whether you want a sweet grape or one with a more subtle flavor, there’s an option for you.
Grapes are grown all over the world, including North America, Australia, and South Africa. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, copper, and potassium.
Oranges
Oranges are beloved by those old and young. They are a staple at kids’ soccer games and a favorite with breakfast.
The beauty of oranges is how versatile they are. You can bite into their sweet pulp, make refreshing juice, and even bake with them.
Oranges are grown in warmer climates such as the Mediterranean region, Australia, and the southern US. They are incredibly rich in vitamin C, with one orange containing 100% of your recommended daily intake.
Watermelon
Watermelons are quite considerate as they tell you exactly what you are getting: a melon packed with water. Also included is a burst of sweetness.
On long summer days, there’s nothing better than sinking your teeth into a bite of watermelon. A further consideration of the fruit is that the peel is thick enough to act as the perfect handle.
Watermelons are commonly grown in the southern United States. They are high in vitamin C and vitamin A.
Lemons
Lemons are one of those fruits that you just couldn’t live without. They are able to enhance a cooked meal, add flavor to a drink, and if you select the right variety, are even sweet enough to eat on their own.
While lemons are primarily used for their juice, their true health benefits come from their pulp. This may be a sour way to get your nutrients, but it is worth it
Lemons are grown in warmer climates, such as the Mediterranean region and parts of the US, such as California and Florida. They are a good source of vitamin C and their pulp is a good source of fiber.
Avocados
Avocados have been around for a while but they have only reached peak popularity in recent years. Their creamy texture and dense amount of nutrients have made them a fan favorite, especially for younger generations.
Whether you want to spread some avocado on toast or mash it into guacamole, its taste is a nice addition to most foods.
Avocados are grown primarily in Central America, South America, and California. They are packed full of healthy fats and are a good source of fiber and potassium.
Peaches
Peaches are incredibly delicate but if handled just right they are packed with flavor and juicy goodness. There are many varieties of peaches and you can even find some without the customary stone pit inside.
Although they have a bit of a fuzzy skin to them, this is still edible. You can bite right into a peach or slice them up to include in a favorite baking recipe.
Peaches are typically grown in the southern United States. They are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
Blueberries
Blueberries are the go-to fruit for health nuts as most people see them as a superfood. While they are small in size, they pack a lot of nutrients inside.
Despite tasting so sweet, there actually isn’t a high sugar content. You can enjoy blueberries on their own, by the handful, or include them in your favorite baking recipes.
Blueberries grow in North American and Europe. They are incredibly rich in vitamin C and vitamin K, and are also high in antioxidants.
Pineapple
Pineapples are a special fruit that just looks cool. They are the epitome of tropical locations and a backyard BBQ isn’t complete without one.
While it takes a bit of work to get at the inner juicy fruit of a pineapple, that hard work will pay off. You can enjoy the fresh, juicy fruit on its own, BBQ it for a bit of an extra punch, and even pair it with meat such as pork.
Pineapples grow in Central America and West Africa. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is often overlooked next to its cousin the watermelon. However, this sweet treat should not be forgotten.
Best eaten cold, and with a spoon, cantaloupe has a nice, thick inner flesh that is perfect for biting into. It is packed with nutrients and water, and so makes a great way to stay hydrated in the summer.
Cantaloupe is grown in China, India, and the Middle East area. It has a high amount of vitamin A and vitamin C in addition to large amounts of antioxidants.
Cherries
Cherries are sometimes classified as a berry but they actually fall into a different category called drupes. They are great eaten fresh, cooked into dessert, and even used to accompany savory meals such as red meat.
Cherries can be eaten as soon as they are picked. However, if they haven’t been sprayed, they often have tiny worms that float around next to the seed pit.
Cherries grow in North America and Europe. They are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
Pears
Pears vary in color, texture, and taste, making them full of surprise. They can be overly sweet or tart, so it’s important to know which varietal you are chomping into.
You can enjoy pears fresh from the tree. They are also great for baking and are a favorite for those who are into canning.
Pears are grown in many parts of the United States. They are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
Limes
Limes are the counterpart to lemons. They have a unique flavor that really enhances so many dishes.
Used in culinary dishes around the world, lime juice can add a bit of zing to salads, stir-fries, and even cocktails.
Limes are primarily grown in Indonesia and other parts of Asia. They are rich in vitamin C.
Mangoes
Mangoes are enjoyed because they are such a sweet fruit. In fact, they are often used as a substitute for sugar in some recipes.
You can enjoy fresh mango, sliced off its skin, or enjoy its refreshing taste in ice cream.
Mangoes love the heat and grow best in Central and South America. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber.
Raspberries
Raspberries perfectly border the world of sweet and tangy. They are a summer favorite for children who love picking them right from the bush.
The nice thing about raspberries is that, unlike blackberries, they often don’t have thorns along their branches.
Raspberries are grown in Europe and North America. They are a good source of vitamin C and vitamin E.
Blackberries
Blackberries are nature’s dessert. While you can certainly purchase them in a grocery store, part of the fun of blackberries is simply picking them in the wild.
They are protected by thorns that run along their brambles. However, there are now thornless blackberry varieties that allow a more pleasant picking experience.
Blackberries grow in North America and Europe. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and fiber.
Plums
Plums need to be left until they are perfectly ripe before being eaten. However, if you time it just right, they are rich and juicy fruits.
To ensure you are eating a ripe plum, make sure it has a heavy feel to it and a sweet scent. You can enjoy fresh plums, use them in baking, or dry them into prunes.
Plums are grown in China, Europe, and North America. They are a good source of B vitamins and are rich in potassium and magnesium.
Nectarines
Nectarines are commonly confused with peaches. In fact, they are basically the same fruit except that peaches have a fuzzy skin to them while nectarines are smooth.
This makes nectarines a great choice for those who don’t like biting into the fuzzy skin of peaches.
Nectarines are grown in the southern United States. They are a great source of vitamin C.
Conclusion
Without fresh fruit, life would be pretty boring. Whether you want the exotic taste of tropical fruits or the juiciness of citrus fruits, there’s no wrong choice.
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