Tasty Taxonomy

Question: Which of these is not related to carrots?

Answer: Although they are both root vegetables, carrots are in the parsley family (Apiaceae) while turnips are in the mustard family (Brassicaceae).

Question: Nectarines and peaches are the same species.

Answer: Nectarines are smooth-skinned peaches. Both fruits are forms of Prunus persica, a tree in the rose family.

Question: Kale and collards are the same species.

Answer: Both kale and collards are forms of Brassica oleracea, variety acephala.

Question: A pear is in the same family as:

Answer: All are members of the rose family (Rosaceae).

Question: Stevia is in the mint family.

Answer: Stevia is a member of the aster family (Asteraceae).

Question: Coffee is related to:

Answer: Both gardenias and coffee are members of the madder family (Rubiaceae).

Question: Cabbage and Brussels sprouts are the same species.

Answer: Cabbage and Brussels sprouts are forms of Brassica oleracea, which also includes broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and kohlrabi.

Question: Wheat is in the same family as:

Answer: Teff, a tiny grain in the grass family (Poaceae), is a staple cereal crop in Ethiopia.

Question: Blueberries are most closely related to:

Answer: Cranberries and blueberries are members of the same genus (Vaccinium) in the family Ericaceae.

Question: Bananas and coconuts are in the same family.

Answer: Coconuts are true palms (family Arecaceae), while bananas are giant herbs in the family Musaceae.