Hardy Kiwi

This odd-looking fruit received its moniker from the flightless bird of the same name from New Zealand, it looks like a large brown egg with a covering of fine downy hair, but this rather unusual exterior hides a beautiful brilliant green flesh, spattered with tiny edible black seeds, and the kiwi's flavor is elusive, some say it's reminiscent of pineapple . . . others say strawberry . . . but all agree that it has a sweet-tart flavor unlike any other fruit, the kiwi is cultivated in both New Zealand and California.