• The pineapple belongs to the Bromeliaceae family of plants in the Poales order. It is also known in Mandarin as “凤梨” in some regions.
• According to The Taiwan Prefecture Gazetteer (《台湾府志》), the pineapple skin is similar to that of a jackfruit, and the name “凤梨” came about because the cluster of leaves at the top of the fruit is shaped like a phoenix’s tail.
• It is believed that there are several possible origins of the term “黄梨” (yellow pear). One belief is that it originated from the Foochow dialect. Another belief is that it originated from the Cantonese term “王梨” (king of pears), as “王” (king) and “黄” (yellow) are homophonous in Cantonese. The third belief points to the colour of the fruit. The pineapple is also known today in Hokkien as “王梨” (onglai).
• The pineapple plant is native to South America, where it has been cultivated since a long time ago. It was discovered in Guadeloupe in the late 15th century by maritime explorer Christopher Columbus, who then transplanted it to Spain.
• By the 17th century, pineapples were being grown in many parts of the world.
• Around 1637, pineapple cultivation in Singapore began. By the 19th century, it had become one of the major crops in Singapore.
• The renowned pioneer of pineapple cultivation in Singapore was Lim Nee Soon. The present Yishun Town in Singapore is named after him to commemorate his contribution to the area. Since the late 19th century, Lim Nee Soon developed eextensive pineapple plantations in the area. For his substantial investments in the pineapple business, he earned the title of “Pineapple King”.
• Pineapple is also pronounced as onglai in Singaporean Hokkien. Since “王” and “旺” (prosperity) sound alike, as do “梨” and “来” (come), the term “黄梨” (pineapple) also has an allegorical meaning of “旺来” (may prosperity come to us). Therefore, the pineapple is usually present at significant traditional festivals or rituals for its auspicious meaning.

菠萝 (Mainland China, Hong Kong), 凤梨 (Taiwan)