• The pineapple belongs to the Bromeliaceae family of plants.
• Several possible origins have been posited for the name “黄梨” (literally, “yellow pear”). One belief is that it originated from the Foochow dialect. Another belief is that it originated from the Cantonese term “王梨” (literally, “king of pears”), as “王” and “黄” are homophonous in Cantonese. The third belief points to the fruit’s yellow flesh. 
• In Hokkien, pineapples are also known as “王梨” ong lai, which sounds like “旺来” (literally, “prosperity comes”). Hence, the pineapple is regarded among many Chinese Singaporeans as an auspicious symbol and is often present at traditional festivals and rituals. 
• Another name for pineapples is “凤梨” (literally, “phoenix pear”). According to the 17th-century Taiwan Prefecture Gazetteer, this name came about because the cluster of leaves at the top of the fruit was thought to resemble a phoenix’s tail.
• By the 17th century, pineapples were being cultivated in many parts of the world.
• As early as 1637, pineapples were being grown in Singapore. By the 19th century, pineapples had become one of the major crops.
• One of the pioneers of pineapple cultivation in Singapore was “Pineapple King” Lim Nee Soon. In the early 20th century, Lim developed extensive pineapple plantations in the area around present-day Yishun and Sembawang. Yishun (formerly spelled Nee Soon, before taking its present pinyin form) was named after Lim in commemoration of his contributions to the area. 

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