It Takes Two Years to Grow a Single Pineapple

Pineapples are surprisingly slow to grow. The plant must first mature for 12-18 months before it can flower, and then it takes another 6-8 months for the fruit to develop. Each pineapple plant produces only one fruit during its productive cycle. After harvesting, the plant can produce a second, smaller fruit called a 'ratoon' crop, but this is typically of lower quality. The pineapple plant is actually a collection of individual flowers that fuse together to create the fruit we know. This slow growth rate is one reason why pineapples were once considered a luxury item and symbol of wealth.