Frücht

Früchte (plural of Frucht, meaning "fruit" in German) are the mature ovaries of flowering plants (angiosperms) containing seeds. They develop from the flower after pollination and fertilization. Fruits play a crucial role in seed dispersal, protecting the seeds and aiding their spread to new locations. They are also an important source of nutrition for animals, including humans.

Botanically, a fruit is defined by its origin from the flower's ovary. This definition includes many structures commonly considered vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. Culinary fruits, on the other hand, are generally sweet or tart and are often consumed as desserts or snacks.

Fruits can be classified in several ways, including:

• Simple fruits: Develop from a single ovary of a single flower (e.g., apples, peaches, berries).

• Aggregate fruits: Develop from multiple ovaries of a single flower (e.g., raspberries, blackberries).

• Multiple fruits: Develop from the ovaries of multiple flowers clustered together (e.g., pineapples, figs).

• Accessory fruits: Develop from parts of the flower other than the ovary (e.g., strawberries, where the fleshy part is derived from the receptacle).

The nutritional content of fruits varies widely depending on the species. However, fruits are generally good sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. They are often low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet. Common methods of preserving fruits include canning, drying, freezing, and making jams or preserves.