In the skies and under soils: your zodiac sign as fruit.

Introduction

As viewed from Earth, the zodiac is a belt around the sky that extends on the sun’s yearly circular path. Called the ecliptic, the natural orbit of our planet around the fiery star presents to the eye a movement of the distant skies. The unreachable heavens have long intrigued and captivated all of humankind, with obscure celestial bodies pulling much of human attention and curiosity. Although ancient civilisations gravitated towards astrology, it remains largely rejected today by modern scientific methods of astronomical observations and discoveries.

Despite its pseudoscience branding, astrology still holds a strong place within popular culture. Especially in the 2020s, millennials and generation Z groups appear to show a renewed interest in the field of study. With more believers under the age of 30, it is perhaps sought out by young adults as casual hints into self-identity and discoveries; while astrologers use the system for forecasting. As a whole, astrology remains a relatively harmless source of engagement and entertainment.

To enrich fruits with a bit of human personality, we have thus selected 12 fruits to represent each astrological sign. Learn a bit about the history of these fruits, their characteristics, and where these soil-born wonders align with the sky’s astrological map.

Zodiac and Astrology: a brief explanation
Your fruit as your zodiac sign
Conclusion

Zodiac and astrology: a brief explanation

Zodiac

The ecliptic, often plotted in sky charts and maps, is what we see to be the path of the sun. It travels through the skies and is also where the moon and other planets are often near; lying within several degrees although not on the same orbital plane. The zodiac is the region within about 8° of either side of the ecliptic, and includes all positions of the sun, moon and most planets. The 12 constellations within the zodiac are divided equally to form the 12 astrological signs, with each sign occupying 1/12 of the belt. The 12 zodiac signs include: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.

Astrology

Astrology refers to a form of divination where events may be forecasted through the observation and interpretation of fixed stars and planets. It believes that outcomes and destinies of life are influenced by the zodiacal positions of the sun, moon and planets at the time of an individual’s birth. Similarly, these influences also extend into group and national settings.

Zodiac & Astrology

While little is known about the history of astrological symbols, its first appearance is said to be in Greek manuscripts of the late middle ages. As most constellations passing through the ecliptic represent animals, ancient Greeks referred to astrological signs as “zōdiakos kyklos” (circle of animals); an adoption of the original babylonian zodiac. While animals also show up in the Chinese zodiac system as well, Chinese zodiac is found in a mythical story of a great race rather than constellations.

The twelve astrological signs and their respective symbols.

Your fruit as your zodiac sign

Aries (the ram): Durian

21 Mar – 20 Apr

Symbolised by the ram, the aries sign is characterised by courage, ambition and determination. Like the hardy shell of a durian, an aries is powerful and unafraid. The confidence in oneself makes aries a natural leader, with their quick wit often granting them pioneering ideas that are rarely conventional – much like the exotic durian fruit. Aries' presence is unyielding, closely resembling the polarising and inescapable smell of durian. With durian dubbed as the “king of fruits”, aries are similarly powerful leaders who command much authority.

At their worst, aries can be selfish, impatient and quick-tempered. Just like one cannot relent to impatience by prematurely harvesting the durian as it will not only bear little fruit, but the difficulty in opening its shell may also end up with much self-inflicted pain and difficulty. The durian falls on its own when ripe – and aries will act on their own when they are ready. Seldom without a plan, this ambitious and determined sign may appear intimidating like the thorns of durian fruits. However, those who understand the true gold within know how to pay aries their due appreciation.

The name "durian" comes from the Malay word duri (thorn), a reference to the fruit’s spiky aesthetic. 9 out of 30 recognised durian species produce edible fruit, and there are over 300 named varieties within South East Asia. Although rich in micronutrients, durians are considered heaty fruits in the traditional Chinese medicine system and should be consumed moderately, with cooler foods such as mangosteens and watermelon.

Taurus (the bull): Rambutan

10 Apr – 21 May

Although symbolised by the bull which many associate with a strong and fighter personality, taurus can be quite the opposite. Patient, calm and warmhearted, the closest traits of this sign to the bull are perhaps the shared determination and generous love for others. Taurus people are often reliable and largely dependable, as they crave and prioritise a sense of security.

A taurean’s exterior and interior can be contradictory at times. While prone to jealousy, resentment and possessiveness, taureans do not always express these feelings -due to the unwillingness to shake the order of things or worse -- to generate ill-feelings. Like the rambutan’s brightly red exterior that sprouts outlandish reddish-green hairs, one can be surprised when the fruit opens up into a translucent, rather plain-looking interior. Like the translucency of rambutans, it’s not always clear how taureans think or feel – as they often present themselves differently.

As such, people of this sign can become materialistic and overly obsessed with self-image, possibly because it yields them a sense of security. However, taureans should remember that the biggest shine often comes from the inside. Like the multifunctional rambutan fruit and tree whose parts are used in traditional medicine, taureans are reliable in their underrated generosity that is both sweet and practical.

The name rambutan comes from the Malay word rambut (hair), of which is referring to the pliable spines of the fruit (spinterns). Also known as messy hair and red-haired pellet by Vietnamese and Chinese respectively, the spiny rind of the fruit is rich in phenolic acids while the seed is narcotic when uncooked!

Gemini (the twins): Apple

22 May – 21 Jun

Represented by a pair of twins, the gemini is versatile, communicative and lively. Always packed with youthful and inquisitive energy, this star sign spells fun with its eloquence and wit. Geminis’ strong sense of adaptability helps one to fit in anywhere, and their intelligence equips them with a rare power duo, making these characters often welcome and well-accepted.

Much like Eve was drawn to the apple which is widely speculated as the forbidden fruit, gemini’s intelligence and magnetic nature effortlessly draw curious people with the seeming promises of knowledge; but of course without the infamous fall of humanity. Similar to the serpent who tempted Eve, geminis have been criticised to be superficial, cunning or misrepresentative. When one considers that apples actually contain poisonous seeds despite their seemingly inoffensive appearances, it can seem akin to geminis. Despite this, the sign remains adaptable and versatile – just like how a branch of an apple tree can be joined with another variety to produce a new one, geminis always thrive.

Up until the 17th century, the word “apple’ used to refer to nuts and any type of fruit. With seeds producing an entirely new and genetically different variety, apples require grafting or budding to maintain identicalness to their parents. A medium-sized apple provides about 10% of the human’s daily fiber requirement, making it an ideal snack for improved digestion and satiety.

Cancer (the crab): Passion fruit

22 June – 22 July

A cautious yet soft homebody, the cancer is a perfect resemblance to its symbol of the crab. This intuitive and imaginative sign is often loving and empathetic, and carries sentimental and emotional attitudes. Like a cancer crab, passion fruits have a thick shell that is essential to protect its soft and messy insides. Most of all, cancers are passionate – much like the name of passion fruit suggests. Often comfortable and preferring to stay within their own shell and territory, cancers love to live inside of themselves, only showing themselves when prompted.

Just like how passion fruits grow on climbing vines, this star sign follows where nature and intuition lead them, and seldom approaches life in a linear direction. They cling onto stronger support systems and often find it difficult and even dangerous to let go. As such, these softies cosplaying as tough guys can often find themselves feeling moody, needy and overwhelmed by emotions. The eventual fall of the passion fruit from its support should inspire cancers to realise the sweetness and sufficiency that is inside them – traits that those around them embrace.

In reference to the fruit’s easiness in preparation, the name "passion fruit" comes from the Spanish term "maracuyá" (fruit that serves itself). A single passion fruit contains only 17 calories but packs nearly 10% of our daily vitamin A and C requirements. The rinds of passion fruit have also been researched to function as an edible food packaging, given their high antioxidant content.

Leo (the lion): Kiwano

July 23 – aug 21

Symbolised by the lion, leos are faithful, loving and warmhearted. The generous and enthusiastic star sign is largely sociable, accepting people for their differences and often sharing their energy and affection with a huge heart. The stability and consistency of leos make it rare for them to turn harshly judgmental or discriminatory. Especially given that they are expansive and broad-minded creatures, it is more likely for leos to protect others rather than to reject.

The fervent, welcoming and confident nature of leo earns itself much charisma and charm, in addition to a usually attractive appearance. Like the kiwano, a unique and exotic fruit with a distinctive aesthetic that is first of its own kind, leos share a similar pride and love in leadership. A sign that revels in praise and respect, leos like to stand out and be known positively for it. The regality of leos parallel greatly to the kiwano’s distinguished and assertive look: they will always be noticed and often admired.

However, this very trait can make leos come across to some as bossy and invasive, appearing to some as pompous attention-seekers. But since ambition and domination flow in leos’ blood, it would greatly conflict leos’ innermost nature to dull them of their energy. In these times, the sign can draw inspiration from the brightly-colored kiwano. Despite the fruit’s horned appearance which can seem unapproachable, it is in fact a soft and reliable fruit: once opened up.

Native to Southern Africa, kiwano is also known as horned melon or horned cucumber, given its membership in the gourd family. It functions as a source of water in dry seasons and deserts, and is a traditional plant of its home country. Despite its rockstar and spiky ap-peel, the peel is actually quite approachable: being edible and a rich source of fiber and vitamin C.

Virgo (the virgin): Pomegranate

22 Aug – 23 Sep

Like its symbol of the virgin suggests, virgos are modest, shy and diligent. Meticulous and practical, this intelligent star sign finds fulfilment and excitement in analysing people, situations and the world – searching for answers to their endless questions.

Like virgos, the pomegranate is a unique and reliable fruit that presents intriguing geometrical patterns and between 600 to 1,400 seeds within itself. If given a mirror, the virgo pomegranate would likely undress itself just to admire and muse on its own design, before finally animatedly exchanging and discussing their thoughts and theories. While pomegranate seems to embody perfection from afar, a closer look would be telling of its irregular circular shape and interior fruit arrangements. Opening up to a cluster of tiny brightly colored fruits that resemble gleaming rubies, each intricately set aside each other – the perfectionist virgo may demand answers on this lack of uniformity.

Indeed, virgos are known to be fussy and harsh critics, who may sometimes overworry in their strive for perfection. But a study of the abundant pomegranate fruit should remind them to seek a balance between conservative ideals and acceptance of the opposites.

The name “pomegranate” is derived from medieval Latin, translating roughly to “seeded apple”. Pomegranates are high in polyphenols and tannins, making for excellent natural dyes. Nutritionally, pomegranates are rich in antioxidants and various vitamins like vitamin K. Pomegranate trees can live up to 200 years, and some trees are grown purely for the flowers’ ornamental value.

Libra (the scale): Cherry

24 Sep 24 – 23 Oct

Romantic, charming and urbane, the libra sign is symbolised by the scale. Being diplomatic peace lovers, this polite star sign seeks equanimity and justice wherever it goes, and is idealistic enough to trust that people would follow their way of life. With a strong dislike to their sense of balance being shaken, libras are thus easygoing and extremely tactful and careful with their speech, making them sociable and delightful creatures.

Just like two cherries are connected at the stems, libras seek to balance the weight of their inner thoughts with what they put out; and can easily fall into loneliness when these are disjointed. Being romantic at heart, libras are symbols of love, as with cherries in popular culture. And just like the thin, fragile stem of cherries, libras can be gullible and easily influenced; having their decisions and moods waver based on the surroundings. The same goes for their heart: being romantic, self-indulgent and charming helps them effortlessly flirt, but young cherry libras should sometimes look within to form a strong sense of self that can ground them like the weight of a cherry; before exposing their fragility to the winds of the world.

The term "cherry" is derived from Latin "cerasum", which refers to a region of ancient Greece where cherries were first thought to be exported. Consumed since prehistoric times, the stone fruit contains tryptophan and melatonin – making it ideal for improving and regulating sleep. Cherries are mostly commercially cultivated today in forms of either sweet or sour, with the latter being a popular choice for cooking.

Scorpio (the scorpion): Coconut

24 Oct – 22 Nov

A scorpio is determined, forceful and passionate. Symbolised by the scorpion, the star sign is powerful and intuitive – often having a sharp sense of how to act in different situations. A cordial personality turns people around them open, relaxed and unpretentious. However, like the hardened husk of coconut, the scorpio holds quite a number of secrets in itself and may not always be ready to reciprocate the frankness they receive. This mysterious allure of scorpio to those not close to them is similar to the polysian myths of coconut: believing that the universe sprung from the fruit. Indeed, for many island, coastal and early communities, coconuts were a primary energy source providing food and drink -- calling for the notion that the fruit was from the heavens.

Like the sacred and powerful fruit, the strength of scorpios are massive and their energy sustains not just oneself, but emits to others too. The emotional nature of scorpios make them more attuned to others, drawing family and friends to them as an extremely reliable provider of comfort and support.

Despite their positive traits, scorpios can easily turn jealous, obsessive and exceedingly stubborn. An obstinate sign, it is challenging for scorpios to adopt thoughts and ways of life outside of their own. The ego can many times hold them back, turning their stubbornness to obsession, resentment and sending them into compulsive behaviors. This can become a barrier between them and different personalities. Like the protective shell of the coconut that is often thought by Eastern traditions to symbolise our ego, scorpios should try breaking out of this barrier to allow their inner brightness to light.

The name “coconut” comes from the 16th-century Portuguese term ”coco” (head or skull), and was named as such due to the shell’s three indentations that were thought to resemble human facial features. Portuguese and Spanish explorers who encountered the coconut’s aesthetic thought the fruit to remind them of ghosts and witches in Portuguese folklore that were called coco. However, the triangular shape of coconut has a grand purpose of survival. Coupled with a thick husk, it grants the fruit the buoyancy required for it to be dispersed by the ocean to distant shoreline destinations. Coconut palms are also considered to be more of a grass than tree – growing and living on sandy grounds, they have a fibrous root system which involves many thin roots growing outward from the plant, rather than being rooted deep in the ground.

Sagittarius (the archer): Fig

23 Nov – 22 Dec

Symbolised by a mythical centaur and human hybrid archer, this star sign is represented by a healer who connected earth and heaven through a higher intelligence. Indeed, being curious, philosophical and passionate, sagittarians make for natural intellects. Like an archer unafraid to explore territories and expand their knowledge, these free and spontaneous souls would roam the ends of the world for new discoveries in a heartbeat.

A fruit similarly associated with knowledge and enlightenment is the fig, with its tree widely recognised by various cultures as a pursuit of and road to truth. In fact, buddha was thought to be seated under a fig tree during enlightenment. The cultural meanings of the fig parallels the sagittarian’s blend of passion and intense curiosity. Like the fruit that carries hundreds to thousands of seeds, the sagittarius heart similarly holds infinite quests for new knowledge.

However, the optimism and free spirit of sagittarius can cause its people to act irresponsibly and carelessly along personal pursuits. With this, the sign can look to the fig as an inspiration to care and provide for others, and guide not just themselves but also the people around them to their truths.

Figs were domesticated even before grains like wheat and barley, and were thought to be the first instance of agriculture. In the botanical sense, figs are considered an inflorescence (ie. cluster of flowers and seeds). Many small fig flowers line the interior of this tear-shaped fruit, with a small opening available for the fig wasp to enter and pollinate the flowers. With almost a quarter of the world’s figs being produced by Turkey, they are exported more popularly in dried forms to extend the fruit’s longevity. Figs are great sources of fiber and calcium, making them suitable additions to the management of digestive and bone health.

Capricorn (the sea-goat): Banana

23 Dec – 20 Jan

Ambitious, hardworking and disciplined, capricorns are workaholics with a big sense of humor. Wise and forward-thinking, lofty plans made by this star sign usually work out due to their patience and practicality. Like capricorns, the banana is productive and practical, bearing large quantities of fruit, and many other uses of its tree – such as its versatile leaves and edible stem. Even as the main stem of a banana tree dies, new ones emerge from the base to once again repeat the fruiting process – much like the indestructibility of capricorns.

Similar to how a banana peel is often exploited for comical effect, causing people to dramatically fall; capricorns love to joke around. Despite this, offended capricorns can be grudging – so treat them well or they may come back for you. At their worst, capricorns are fatalistic and pessimistic, at times resigning themselves. The banana should be an inspiration to defeated capricorns: remembering that as long as they remain grounded and true, new wonders will emerge from the heart.

The name “banana” is thought to come from the Arabic term “banan” (finger), given the fruit’s finger-like appearance. Banana plants are the largest herbaceous flowering plant, and their rapid growth can extend up to 1.6 metres per day. Fruits develop from the banana heart, in a large bunch made up of tiers that are also known as hands. In Asia, banana hearts are popular for culinary uses, with a taste resembling artichoke.

Aquarius (the water-bearer): Mangosteen

21 Jan – 19 Feb

Friendly and independent, the aquarius sign is symbolised by a water-pouring figure of which the action represents a generous sharing of knowledge and ideas. Not one to easily succumb to things and people, aquarians are original, creative, inventive and are not afraid to rebel. Like the futuristic-looking mangosteen fruit that appears to be adorning a dark green flower-shaped hat and a raised flower pattern at its bottom, aquarians are similar nonconformists and innovators.

The bold and authentic intellect of aquarians matched with their honest nature makes them extremely well-loved and approachable. In fact, people of the aquarius sign are largely humanitarian, loving to help others with their talents whilst staying loyal. Much like the mangosteen which was noticed and recognised by the emperor of the last vietnamese dynasty, the royals of the Nguyen dynasty enjoyed cultivations of this luxury fruit that was also affectionately named “the pearl of god”. In other cultures, mangosteens symbolise prosperity and abundance – much akin to the mind of an aquarius. It is important to note that mangosteens and aquarians are not just affluent in themselves, but also hold great willingness to share their value with others. Like the raised flower pattern on the bottom of mangosteens that tells you exactly how many segments of the fruit you will be able to find inside, aquarians are similarly honest and prepared to share what they have and know.

However, this stubbornly creative star sign can become unmanageable and detached, choosing to act perversely if situations turn against their character and beliefs. In these trying times of unpredictability, aquarians can look to the mangosteen that history has dubbed the pearl of god; and remember that a pearl only begins to form when irritated by something foreign to them.

The name “mangosteen” originates from the Malay term “mangustān”, which refers to both the mangosteen tree and fruit. Native to the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, the tree can double its average fruit production from its first yield to the time it reaches maturity. Fully mature trees can produce up to 3,000 fruits and for as long as 100 years, unfortunately putting humans to question. Mangosteens contain only about 0.0025% of the chemical constituents of fragrant fruits, giving them a relatively mild taste.

Pisces (the fish): Grape

20 Feb – 20 Mar

Sensitive, kind and compassionate, the pisces is symbolised by two fishes. With an artistic and selfless nature, this star sign is dreamy and forgiving – often coming off as unworldly. Pisceans are often led by their intuitions, and easily find or form their own worlds and truths. Like the vines of grapes that grow instinctively towards the sun, pisceans are strongly connected to their sense of nature, and are close listeners of their hearts.

Just like how grapes can form fine, flavorful and aromatic wines, pisceans hold large and vast imaginations that they often creatively express through art. In Greek mythology, Dionysus – the god of wine, was believed to be the discoverer of viticulture through the tragic death of his lover, whose corpse enlivened a grape-bearing vine. Like the whimsical stories that grapes have carried through time, pisceans boast an expansive library of their own tales and alternative thoughts. The nature of this star sign is also characterised by a continual length of selfless giving and forgiving – an abundance similarly associated with grapes.

At times, the ideals of pisceans can result in escapism, causing them to act vaguely and in disorganisation. The general gullibility of this star sign also makes them vulnerable to having their will and resolution shaken by others. In such phases and situations, pisceans should stay close in their tribe like grapes in a bunch – remembering that they do not have to compromise if it means straying from their roots.

The name “grape” is thought to originate from the Old French verb “graper” (to catch with a hook), in reference to the hook-like tools used to pick grapes off the vine. Grapes are believed to originate from the Middle East, with cultivation beginning as far back as 8,000 years ago. The naturally-occuring yeast in grape skins led to discoveries of wine and alcoholic beverages – a much less romantic version of Dionysus’ story. The antioxidants of grapes (eg. resveratrol) may provide protection against cell damage, thereby possibly reducing risks of diseases and cognitive decline.

Conclusion

A fan of astrology or not, we hope you found this a fun read while also learning a little more about the zodiac and fruits. This article wasn’t meant to be taken too seriously, for human personalities are so much more complex than what is said to be written in the stars. Our destinies are undefined and unpromised, but we can make promises towards ourselves on who we wish to become. Most of the time, this begins with paying attention to our bodies – and how we nourish ourselves. Pay a tribute to your birthday by picking up your zodiac’s fruit today!

Thank you for reading,

Namaste.

In the skies and under soils: your zodiac sign as fruit.

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