What type of fruit is known as a drupe?

A drupe is classified as a type of fruit that has a fleshy outer layer surrounding a single hard seed or pit. This structure is characteristic of what we commonly refer to as stone fruits. Stone fruits include varieties such as peaches, cherries, and plums, all of which have that distinct outer flesh and central hard seed, hence the term "stone."

In contrast, berries, while also fleshy, contain multiple seeds and are cultivated differently. Citrus fruits have a different structure as well, characterized by their segmented flesh and high acidity. Pomes, such as apples and pears, have a core that contains multiple seeds surrounded by a fleshy layer but are not classified as drupes.

Therefore, the defining characteristics of drupes align perfectly with the concept of stone fruits, making this classification essential in understanding the botanical categories of fruit.