Lady Curzon And A Pineapple

Ian Peacock picks up his spoon to delve into the history of "The King of Fruits".

The "most wanted" additions to any early 20th century dinner party were said to have been Lady Curzon and a Pineapple. The former for her wit and charms, the latter for its taste, of course, but also for its status as a symbol of wealth and exoticism.

Pineapples are believed to have been discovered by Columbus in 1493, and by the 18th century they were so sought-after that many wealthy landowners were attempting to grow them here in Britain. Some were successfully grown as far north as Falkirk in Central Scotland.

Lucinda Lambton discusses pineapple representation in architecture here and abroad, while Ian meets a young pineapple grower and tastes one cooked to an ancient recipe on a spit over an open fire.

Producer: Caroline Barbour

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2005.

Ian Peacock picks up his spoon and delves into the history of The King of Fruits\u201d.