Stone fruits : complete list & guide
Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are a type of fruit produced by flowering plants, mainly in the genus Prunus of the Rosaceae family. These fruits are characterized by a fleshy exterior surrounding a single, hard, woody stone or pit that contains the seed.
List of all stone fruits
Cherry
Apricot
Peach
What to know about stone fruits ?
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Name origin
“Drupa”, meaning overripe olive in Latin
Botanical classification
Mostly genus Prunus, family Rosaceae
Fruit structure
Fleshy fruit with a single hard stone (drupe)
Stone fruits in details
Stone fruits form a distinct group in the fruit world, easily recognized by their juicy, tender flesh and a single, hard pit at the center. Unlike pome fruits, which have a core containing several seeds, stone fruits develop from a single carpel and feature a tough, woody endocarp that protects the seed. The edible part is typically the mesocarp, which is rich in flavor and varies from sweet to tart depending on the species.Popular stone fruits include peaches, plums, cherries, nectarines, and apricots, all of which are staples in summer diets and recipes. Other notable stone fruits are mangoes, olives, dates, lychees, and even coconuts. Each has unique qualities—peaches are known for their fuzzy skin, nectarines for their smooth skin, and plums for their range of colors and tartness. Cherries and apricots are prized for their sweet or tangy flavors, while mangoes and dates are enjoyed for their tropical sweetness.Stone fruits are not only delicious but also nutritious, providing vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Their growth cycle includes distinct stages: cell division after flowering, stone hardening as the seed matures, cell expansion as the fruit fills with sugars and water, and a final swell before harvest. Most stone fruits thrive in temperate climates and are grown on deciduous trees or shrubs. Their adaptability and diversity make them a cornerstone of orchards and fruit markets worldwide.
Related fruit types
Pome fruits
