Celery – Fruit or Vegetable?
When we think of celery, we usually think of it as a vegetable. However, celery is actually a fruit. Although it is rarely eaten as a fruit, it contains some of the same characteristics as other fruits and vegetables.
What makes something a fruit?
According to botanical definitions, anything that contains seeds and grows from a flower is considered to be a fruit. Thus it is clear that celery fits into this category and is indeed a fruit.
Signs of a Fruit
Celery has the same characteristics of other fruits, such as:
- Seeds – Celery is actually made up of numerous tiny seeds.
- Flesh – This is the white part of the celery stalk. It is made of soft, edible flesh that does not contain as much water as other fruits.
- Sweetness – Celery does not taste very sweet, but it is still capable of producing a mild sweetness when ripe.
Is it a vegetable or fruit?
So, the answer to the question is that celery is technically a fruit, but is usually regarded as a vegetable. It has the same characteristics as other fruits and is often used in cooking as a vegetable. Therefore, it can be both a fruit and a vegetable.
In conclusion, the debate of whether celery is a fruit or vegetable will probably continue for many years to come. But, it is clear that it has the same characteristics of a fruit and therefore is technically one.
