15+ Drupe Fruit Example: Detailed Explanations And Images

Introduction

Have you ever bitten into a juicy peach or cracked open a fresh coconut, and wondered about the unique structure of these fruits? If so, then it’s time to dive into the fascinating world of drupes. These delicious and versatile fruits have captured our taste buds for ages with their rich flavors and intriguing anatomy.

A drupe is a type of fruit that has a hard inner layer surrounding the seed, with a fleshy outer layer and a thin skin or exocarp.

In this blog, we’ll explore what makes a drupe fruit distinctive, uncover common types of drupes you may encounter daily, and even learn some surprising benefits they offer to our health.

Diagram of a typical drupe fruit 

Image: Wikipedia

Key Takeaways

• A drupe is a type of fruit that has a hard inner layer surrounding the seed, with a fleshy outer layer and thin skin or exocarp.
• Drupe fruits include popular types such as peaches, cherries, plums, almonds and coconuts.
• The anatomy of drupes includes three layers: the exocarp (skin), mesocarp (flesh) and endocarp (stone shell).
• Understanding the unique traits of drupe fruits can help us identify them better and appreciate their culinary, botanical, and nutritional benefits.

Defining A Drupe

A drupe is a unique type of fruit that is botanically classified due to its fleshy exterior and single seed within. This simple fruit forms from a flower with just one ovary and carpel, making it distinct from other fruits like berries or pomes.

Understanding the anatomy of a drupe helps clarify its classification. The outer layer consists of two parts, the exocarp, which is the skin, and the mesocarp, known as the flesh.

Inside these layers lies a hard shell or pit protecting the seed. Some familiar examples of drupe fruits include cherries, peaches, olives, and even coconuts.

How Is A Drupe Classified And Categorized?

Drupe fruits are classified and categorized based on their unique structural characteristics, which make them distinct from other types of fruits. As a type of simple fruit, drupes develop from a single ovary in the flower of a plant and contain only one seed.

The most distinguishing feature of drupe fruits is their three-layered pericarp that encloses the seed. These layers include an outer fleshy layer called the exocarp, a middle fibrous layer called the mesocarp, and an inner woody layer known as the endocarp or ‘stone.’ 

Examples of drupes include peaches, cherries, olives, plums, and even almonds, which many people mistakenly classify as nuts due to their hard shell exterior.

Characteristics Of A Drupe

Understanding the unique traits of drupe fruits is essential for identifying them and appreciating their various culinary, botanical, and nutritional benefits. 

Here are some key characteristics of drupe fruits:

1. Growth from a single ovary: Drupes develop from a single ovary within an individual flower, resulting in their distinct outer fleshy part.
2. Outer fleshy part (exocarp and mesocarp): Drupes have an exocarp, or skin, protecting the fleshy mesocarp layer that provides both flavor and texture.
3. Stony endocarp: Enclosed by the mesocarp is the tough endocarp layer, which protects the seed inside.
4. Single seed: Unlike some other fruit types, drupes contain just one seed that is not fleshy in nature.
5. Phenolic content: Studies on Italian oil cultivars revealed that drupe fruits are rich in phenolic compounds, which contribute to their antioxidant properties.
6. Various shapes: Drupe fruits can come in different shapes such as spherical as seen in “Oliva Bianca” drupes.

Through recognizing these characteristics of a drupe fruit, we can better understand how they are classified and appreciate their essential role in our diets and culinary creations.

Anatomy And Structure Of A Drupe Fruit

Drupe fruits have a unique anatomy and structure that distinguishes them from other types of fruits. At their core, drupes have a single seed enclosed in a hardened shell called the endocarp.

Surrounding the endocarp is a fleshy outer layer that’s often sweet and delicious.

The endocarp of a drupe is what sets it apart structurally from other types of fruit such as berries. It’s generally tough, leathery, or hard when mature. 

The endocarps are also sclerified with silica in some species such as coconuts to create an even harder outer layer for protection against predators.

The Three Main Layers Of A Drupe Fruit

Drupe fruits have three main layers that are distinct from other types of fruit. The outermost layer, the exocarp or skin, is often colorful and can be smooth or fuzzy depending on the type of drupe.

The middle layer, called the mesocarp or flesh, is where most of the juicy sweetness comes from in a drupe. This is what we eat when we enjoy a ripe peach or plum.

Finally, there’s the innermost layer: the endocarp or stone. This part is hardened and usually contains a single seed inside.

Seed Characteristics Of Drupe Fruits

The seed of a drupe fruit is enclosed within a stony shell known as the endocarp. This hard covering, also referred to as the pit or stone, protects the seed from damage and aids in its dispersal.

The endocarp consists of three layers, an outer skin that may be smooth or covered in hairs, a fleshy middle layer that surrounds the seed and can either be sweet or bitter depending on the fruit type, and an inner layer made up of lignified cells that form a tough shell around the seed.

Additionally, many seeds within drupe fruits possess unique adaptations for survival such as dormancy periods where they remain inactive until environmental conditions are just right for germination.

For example, almond seeds have thick coats that allow them to withstand harsh weather conditions while waiting for rainfall before sprouting into new plants.

Common Types Of Drupe Fruits

Some of the most common types of drupe fruits include peaches, plums, cherries, apricots, coconuts, and almonds.

Peaches And Nectarines

Peaches and nectarines are popular types of drupe fruits that are enjoyed for their sweet, juicy flesh. They have a similar texture but differ in their skin Peaches have a fuzzy exterior while nectarines have a smooth one.

Both fruits contain antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of various diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. 

Additionally, they are an excellent source of nutrition containing vitamins C and A along with fiber, potassium, and niacin.

Peaches and nectarines come in both freestone (easily separated from the pit) or clingstone (firmly attached to the pit) varieties depending on the cultivar.

Plums, Cherries, And Apricots

Plums, cherries, and apricots are all examples of drupe fruits. A drupe is a type of fleshy fruit that has a single stone or pit in the center.

These stone fruits come from about 15 species of the genus Prunus and they are among the most common types of drupes. Plums can be sweet or tart, and their skin can vary in color from purple to red to yellow.

Cherries have a bright red color when ripe and are often used in baked goods and desserts.

Stone fruit trees typically produce an abundant harvest during summer months with varying ripening periods depending on the climate where it’s grown. When choosing plums, look for those that are firm but slightly soft to the touch, while cherries should be dark red with firm flesh.

For apricots, choose those that have a deeper orange hue for optimum taste quality.

Coconuts And Pecans

Coconuts and pecans are two common types of drupe fruits. Coconuts, despite being referred to as nuts, are technically classified as a fibrous one-seeded drupe with a hard stony covering enclosing the seed.

The coconut tree is native to tropical regions and is valued for its edible flesh and milk, which can be used in various dishes such as curries and smoothies.

Meanwhile, pecans are true nuts that are grown on the pecan tree. They have a characteristic buttery taste and can be eaten raw or roasted, often used in baking pies or making pralines.

Almonds

Another commonly known drupe fruit is the almond, which is native to the Middle East and South Asia but cultivated in many regions worldwide. Almonds are not considered true nuts since they have a hard outer covering that encloses a seed inside, much like other drupe fruits such as peaches or cherries.

The edible part of an almond is actually the seed (also called kernel), which has a distinctive flavor and contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and protein.

Almonds can be eaten raw or roasted and used in various dishes such as salads, desserts, or snacks. They are also often made into almond milk or flour for baking purposes due to their unique taste and nutritional value.

Drupe fruits grow from the ovary of a single flower and are typically derived from flowers with superior ovaries, where the fleshy mesocarp surrounds a hard endocarp containing the seed.

The Drupe Fruit And Botany: How Does It Grow?

A drupe fruit develops from a single flower with one pistil containing one ovule. The fertilized egg cell grows into a seed, while the surrounding tissues develop into the fruit’s edible part.

During growth, the fertilized ovary undergoes several changes to produce the mature drupe that we consume.

Once pollinated, seed development occurs as a result of mitotic divisions and cell differentiation leading to embryo production within the ovule. While this is happening in all fruits more or less similarly, what sets drupes apart is their unique anatomy.

The outermost layer called exocarp ripens first followed by mesocarp which becomes fleshy when ripe and lastly endocarp or hard portion around the seed also known as stone ripens later forming a shell-like structure enclosing the kernel inside.

What Gives A Drupe Fruit Its Distinctive Taste?

The distinctive taste of drupe fruits comes from their unique composition of sugars, acids, and volatile compounds. The sugar content in these fruits is usually high, with fructose being the most common type.

Additionally, the presence of organic acids like citric and malic acid gives drupes a tart flavor.

Another factor contributing to the taste of drupe fruits is the presence of volatile compounds such as esters and aldehydes.

Examples of deliciously flavored drupe fruits include cherries with their sweet-tart taste or peaches with their juicy texture and distinct aroma.

Using Drupe Fruits For Different Purposes

Drupe fruits are versatile and can be used for various purposes, such as cooking, baking, making jams and jellies, drinks like wines and juices.

Cooking And Baking With Drupe Fruits

Drupe fruits can add a unique flavor to your meals and snacks. They can be used in a variety of ways, including cooking and baking. 

Here are some ways you can incorporate these stone fruits into your recipes:

1. Make pies: Use fresh or canned drupe fruits to make delicious pies. Peach, cherry, and plum are popular choices.
2. Make jams and preserves: Preserve the flavors of drupe fruits by making jam or preserves with them. These can be spread on toast or used as toppings for desserts.
3. Make chutneys: Drupe fruits like apricots and peaches can be used to make sweet and tangy chutneys that pair well with meat dishes.
4. Add them to salads: Slice up some fresh peaches or nectarines and add them to your favorite salad for a burst of sweetness.
5. Grill them: Cut peaches or plums in half, brush them with oil, and grill them until they’re caramelized for a tasty summer treat.
6. Use their juice: Press the outer flesh of drupe fruits like peaches or apricots to extract their juice, which can be used in cocktails, smoothies, or mocktails.

By experimenting with drupe fruits in your cooking and baking, you can unlock new flavors in your favorite recipes while also adding healthy nutrients like vitamins A and C.

Making Jams, Jellies, And Preserves With Drupe Fruits

Drupe fruits, with their sweet and juicy flesh, are perfect for making jams, jellies, and preserves. 

Here are some tips for preserving these delicious fruits:

1. Choose ripe drupe fruits that are free of blemishes and bruises.
2. Wash the fruit and remove any stems or pits.
3. Cut the fruit into small pieces or mash it with a fork to release its juices.
4. Combine the fruit with sugar, pectin, and acid (such as lemon juice) in a large saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat while stirring constantly.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the mixture thickens, usually about 20-30 minutes.
7. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface of the jam or jelly during simmering.
8. Once the mixture has thickened, pour it into sterilized jars and seal tightly.
9. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Some great recipes for drupe fruit preserves include cherry preserves, peach jam, and olive tapenade made from cured olives. With these simple steps and delicious recipes, you can enjoy homemade drupe fruit jams, jellies, and preserves all year round.

Using Drupe Fruits For Beverages, Wines, And Juices

Drupe fruits are versatile and can be used for making various beverages, wines, and juices. 

Here are some ways to use drupe fruits for this purpose:

1. Fruit Beverages: Drupe fruits such as peaches, plums, and cherries can be used for making fruit-based beverages like smoothies, milkshakes, and slushies.
2. Winemaking: Drupe fruits like grapes are widely used in wine production. However, other drupe fruits like plums and cherries can also be fermented to make delicious wines.
3. Fruit Juice: Drupe fruits like nectarines and apricots can be juiced and consumed on their own or added as a mixer for cocktails.
4. Nut Fruits: Almonds are a closely related member of the drupe family and can also be used in cocktail recipes to add flavor profiles.
5. Palm sap: The juice from wounded spathes of palms, particularly of Cocos nucifera or coconut palm tree is known as Toddy in India and is used to make alcoholic beverages.
6. Culinary uses: Drupe fruit pulp blended with water makes an excellent base for various culinary applications that require a fruity taste with a distinct aroma.
7. Beverage Industry: Drupe fruits’ versatility has not gone unnoticed by the beverage industry who use them extensively as ingredients in creating new flavors of beverages.

By incorporating drupe fruits into your beverage-making repertoire, you’ll discover new flavors that will tantalize your taste buds while providing you with a refreshing drink option.

Health Benefits Of Eating Drupe Fruits

Drupe fruits are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They offer a wealth of health benefits that can help boost your overall wellbeing. 

One key benefit is their high antioxidant content, which helps protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

These antioxidants include phenolic compounds like flavonoids and anthocyanins found in cherries, plums, and apricots.

Eating drupe fruits may improve digestion thanks to their fiber content, which aids in bowel movements and prevents constipation. 

Stone fruit such as peaches and nectarines contain potassium that helps regulate blood pressure while promoting heart health.

For those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, Drupe fruits can be beneficial too. The rich amount of dietary fibers present in them increases satiety making you feel fuller for longer periods, hence helping with controlling the number of calories consumed throughout the day.

Healthy bones require calcium, magnesium minerals which are found abundantly within almonds without any harmful fats increasing oxidative stress on the body compared to other sources like dairy products among others.

For vision improvement Vitamin A is essential and peaches being an incredible source for it could prove beneficial improving eyesight over time thus reducing age-related eye disorders.

In conclusion,Drupe Fruits aren’t just tasty but they’re also packed with many nutrients necessary for overall well-being.

Drupe Fruits In Folklore And Symbolism

Throughout history, many drupe fruits have held significant meaning and symbolism in folklore. For example, the pomegranate was known as the “fruit of the dead” in Greek mythology and is still associated with death and fertility today.

In Vedic mythology, mangoes are considered a symbol of love. The story goes that Lord Ganesha was once offered an abundant supply of various fruits but chose to eat only the mango because he found it to be the sweetest and most flavorful.

Plums, cherries, peaches, jujubes, olives, all these drupe fruits have been featured in different cultures’ folklore across generations dating back thousands of years.

Further References And Resources On Drupe Fruits

For those interested in learning more about drupe fruits, there are a variety of resources available. 

Here are a few to consider:

• The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has an extensive nutrient database that includes information on the nutritional value of many types of drupe fruits, such as peaches and cherries.
• The International Society for Horticultural Science includes a section on their website dedicated to research on stone fruit crops, which includes many drupe fruits.
• The Journal of Horticultural Science & Biotechnology includes peer-reviewed articles on topics related to the cultivation and production of drupe fruits.
• Books such as “The Handbook of Fruits and Fruit Processing” by Nirmal Siwan and “The Oxford Companion to Food” by Alan Davidson contain information on the history, botany, and culinary uses of various types of drupe fruits.
• Online communities such as r/fruit or gardening forums can be excellent sources for tips and advice from people who grow or consume drupe fruits.

By utilizing these resources, novice readers can deepen their understanding and appreciation for these delicious and nutritious fruit varieties.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Pistachio

Though most of us consider pistachio as a nut they are rather an iconic drupe fruit example. The fleshy fruit that covers the edible seed is discarded during the harvesting and packaging process. Pistachios belong to a special class of drupes called “culinary nuts” which means is not real nut but considered as one in culinary practice.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Mango

Called the “king of fruits” the mango is probably the best known amongst the drupe fruit examples that are mentioned in the list. Native to the Indian subcontinent and grown here for over 4000 years, the mango cultivation has now spread to other parts of East Asia from Bangladesh to Burma and Thailand. The fruit epicarp is a leathery skin that can be peeled off. The seed is very hard in the case of ripened fruits but can be easily cut through in the case of raw and unripe mangoes.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Peach

Peached are another drupe fruit example grown in all the temperate regions across the globe. Peaches are sold and consumed raw, canned and also in pies strudels and other desserts. The flowers from which peach fruits are derived are also beautiful and are often grown for ornamental purposes.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Dates

Dates are another one-seeded drupe fruit example. The size, shape, taste and amount of flesh all depend on the nature and cultivation of the date palm. A lot of commercially sold dates are previously deseeded for convenience and also to avoid any kind of choking hazards.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Cornelian cherry

The cornelian cherry is another drupe fruit example. A relative of the flowering dogwood, Cornus florida, the cornelian cherry is a native of dry deciduous woodlands in central and southern Europe and western Asia. The cornelian cherry fruit is botanically categorized as a drupe.

A bunch of ripe cornelian cherries

Image: Wikipedia

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Olive

Another culinarily significant drupe fruit example is the olive. Used as an addition, especially to continental, the Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, as olives are mainly native to these regions. They are an excellent source of edible Vitamin E and are also used for oil extraction. Olives mainly come in 2 varieties: black and green. Both varieties have a similar tangy taste but differ in size. Mostly olives are sold canned or preserved and are previously pitted to remove their seed.

Illustration of parts of an olive flower and fruit

Image: Wikipedia

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Longan

Longans are another drupe fruit example belonging to the soapberry family just like the litchi. Similar to litchis they have white translucent flesh and single seed. The only difference is the size since longans are only about 3 centimetres in diameter and the amount of edible mesocarp is also much more minute. Longans are used as a fruit and also used for numerous desserts preparation in southeast Asia.

Iamge of the longan fruit with the shell, skin and seed 

Image: Wikipedia

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Walnut

Another unusual example in the list is walnut is one of the fruits that are considered both nuts and drupes. The shell that we crack to get to the nut is actually the hard seed coat and the entire nut as sold is the pit of the fruit.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Coconut

Even though the name has a nut because we can extract oil from it, the coconut is actually a drupe fruit example. The fruit has a single seed which is what we usually eat discarding the other layers of the fruit.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Cherry

While cherries fit the description of fruit, they also belong to a more particular group. Cherries are classed as drupes, a subgenus of the fruit genus. Drupes, also known as stone fruits, have an outer fleshy layer and thin skin and are easily distinguished by the presence of a pit in the middle. These pits (or stones) are the drupe’s unique seed.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Plum

Another iconic drupe fruit example plums are considered to be one of the first fruits that were domesticated in Central Asia and Europe. Plum varieties are native to Asia, Europe and North America and are considered to be what we call a warm-weather fruit. Its delectable flesh is considered quite a delicacy and is used in a variety of desserts.

Japanese plum: Image: Wikipedia

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Raspberry

Unlike all the drupe fruit examples discussed above the raspberry is an aggregate drupelet. That means each segment has its very own seed or pit and was formed from the ovary of a single flower.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Nectarine

Nectarines belong to the peach family and are considered to be domesticated in China over 400 years ago. Nectarines have a white, yellow or red with a single hard seed in the middle. They are considered great sources of vitamin A and C.

Nectarine fruit development from flower to fruit

Image: Wikipedia

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Litchi

A summer favourite the litchi is a drupe fruit example native to south and southeast Asia. They grow in bunches and have succulent and sweet white flesh surrounding the hard pit or seed. Unlike most other fruits the skin of the fruit is dry and spiky once it ripens and can be easily peeled off from the smooth flesh.

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Coffee

Coffee beans are another drupe fruit example where the pit or seed is the edible part. Coffee beans inside small coffee berries that look very similar to cherries. The flesh is discarded and the beans are dried, roasted and ground to get the coffee that most of us drink year-round. Sometimes the ground coffee is mixed with something called chicory to enhance the flavour and make it more commercially available

Example Of Drupe Fruit: Apricot

Preferred dried over the ripe variety apricots are the last drupe fruit example that we will discuss. Known for their strange taste and anticarcinogenic properties the bitter kernels of apricots are considered quite a delicacy across the globe. Distinguished by their slightly translucent orangish flesh that looks nearly jelly-like when dried. Most commercially sold dried apricots usually have their stones i.e. pits removed and cut into rings.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the definition of a drupe fruit?

A: A drupe fruit refers to a type of fruit that is classified as a simple dry fruit with a fleshy outer part surrounding a hard-shelled pit that contains a seed inside unharmed.

Q: Can I find the drupe definition in an English dictionary?

A: Yes, the drupe definition can be found in many English dictionaries.

Q: Do all fruits that have a hard-shelled pit surrounded by a fleshy outer part fall under the definition of a drupe?

A: No, not all fruits that have a hard-shelled pit surrounded by a fleshy outer part are classified as drupes. Some fruits, like blackberries and raspberries, have aggregates of drupelets instead.

Q: What is the terminology used to refer to a drupe with an edible fleshy outer part surrounding a hard-shelled pit?

A: A drupe with an edible fleshy outer part surrounding a hard-shelled pit is referred to as a “fleshy drupe.”

Q: Can I edit this content if I find a mistake or need to add more information?

A: No, as a reader you cannot edit the content on this page. However, if you have additional information or corrections to suggest, you can cite sources and share them with the authors for consideration.

Q: Is there a link available to learn more about drupe fruits?

A: Yes, there are many resources available online to learn more about drupe fruits. You can search for articles on reputable websites, consult botanical or agricultural sources, or visit a local library for books on horticulture and fruit production.

Q: Where is the term “drupe” derived from?

A: The term “drupe” is derived from a Greek word meaning “hard-shelled fruit.”

Q: Are there any fruits that are not drupes, but are still classified as simple dry fruits?

A: Yes, there are many fruits that are classified as simple dry fruits that are not drupes. Examples include coconuts, which have a thick fibrous husk surrounding a hard shell with an edible seed inside.

Q: Are there any drupe fruits that have a husk surrounding the fleshy part?

A: Yes, some drupe fruits have a husk surrounding the fleshy part. This husk may be removed before eating the fruit, or sometimes the husk is also eaten, as in the case of the fruit of black walnuts.

Q: Are all drupes considered “freestone”?

A: No, not all drupes are considered “freestone.” Freestone refers to a type of pit that easily separates from the fleshy part of the fruit, making it easier to remove. Clingstone refers to a type of pit that is more difficult to remove from the fleshy part.

Q: Why are plums preferred for making homegrown jams and preserves?

A: Plums are preferred for making homegrown jams and preserves because their fleshy part easily releases its juice when cooked, producing a thick and flavorful jam or preserve.

Conclusion

In conclusion, drupe fruits are an interesting and diverse group of fruit that offer a unique taste experience. From peaches to olives, these fruits have been enjoyed for centuries and continue to be used in various culinary applications. In summary, drupe fruits are a type of fleshy fruit with a single seed surrounded by a hard shell or stone. Examples of drupe fruits include peaches, plums, cherries, and coconut. These fruits are generally classified as simple fruits and can be used for various purposes such as cooking, making jams or preserves, and even for beverages like wine or juice. In addition to their versatility in the kitchen, drupe fruits also offer health benefits due to their high nutrient content including vitamins A and C.

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Trisha Dey

I am Trisha Dey, a postgraduate in Bioinformatics. I pursued my graduate degree in Biochemistry. I love reading .I also have a passion for learning new languages.
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