FRUITS and Vegetable Classifications

Fruits

Pomes

Smooth skin and an enlarged fleshy area that surrounds the core

Examples

ApplePearkiwi

Drupes

Contain a single seed, or pit, surrounded by juicy flesh.

ExamplesPeachCherryPlumNectarines

apricot

Berries

Fragile cell structure; pulpy and juicy; tiny seeds embedded in flesh

ExamplesBlackberryCranberries

Stawberries

Grapes

Melons

Hard out surface that is smooth or netted; juicy flesh.

ExamplesCantaloupe

HoneydewWatermelon

Citrus Fruits

Grow in warm regions, firm rind and pulpy flesh

Examples

OrangesGrapefruit

Tangerines

Lemons

Limes

Tropical Fruits

Grow in very warm climates; differ in skin composition and seed characteristics.

Examples

BananasPineappleAvocadosDates

FigsMangosPomegranates

papayas

Vegetables

Flowers

Come from the flower part of the plant.

Examples-Broccoli and Cauliflower

Fruits

From the fruit part of the plant.

Examples-Tomato, cucumber, pepper, eggplant, and squash

Seeds

Come from the plant part that grows new plants.

Examples-Beans, corn, and peas.

Stems

Come from the stem of the plant.

Examples-Celery

Leaves

Come from the leaf of the plant.

Examples-Cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and brussel sprouts.

Roots

Come from the root of the plant and can be eaten raw or cooked.

Examples-Carrots, turnips, and radishes.

Tubers

A large underground stem that stores nutrients.

Examples-Potatoes and yams

Bulbs

Have layers of fleshy leaves surrounding the underground part of the stem.

Examples-Onions and garlic

Identity Confusion?

Some vegetables can fit into more than one category. For example, an asparagus is under the “stem” and “flower” category.