Several types of pineapple are found in the region. Some are grown only for ornamental use, their decorative leaves making them a popular pot plant. Small varieties that tend to be somewhat acid, or unripe fruits, are used as a vegetable or in sour fruit salads and also made into pineapple curry. Freshly peeled and sliced ripe pineapple is found everywhere in the region. If buying a whole fruit, check that it is ripe by smelling to see if it is fragrant and try to tear one of the leaves sprouting from the top. If it comes away easily, the fruit is ready to eat.