Ananas

Ananas is a genus of flowering plants in the Bromeliaceae family, most notably containing the pineapple ( Ananas comosus). The name "Ananas" originates from the Tupi word "nanas," meaning "excellent fruit."

The genus Ananas includes several species, although the taxonomic classification can be complex and subject to ongoing research. Ananas comosus is the only species within the genus that is commercially cultivated on a large scale for its fruit. Other species, such as Ananas bracteatus, are cultivated for ornamental purposes or used in breeding programs.

Plants within the Ananas genus are characterized as herbaceous perennials that grow terrestrially. They are typically stemless or have short, stout stems with tough, waxy leaves arranged in a spiral rosette. The fruit develops from a multiple fruit formed from the fusion of many individual flowers.

Cultivation of Ananas comosus is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The plant is valued for its edible fruit, which is consumed fresh, processed into juice, or used in various culinary applications. The fibers from the leaves can also be used to produce textiles.