SWEET and small and always the star of the show, Phuket's pineapples may be a little rougher in appearance on the outside than Kylie Minogue, but like the diminuitive singer, they demand top billing on pulling-power alone.

And so once again this year the orchids, roses, climbing vines and dahlias will simply line up to form part of the chorus at the Phuket Pineapple and Flower Festival 2010.

Those who wish to see why the Phuket pineapple deserves top billing should make their way to see the show between July 9-18 at Saphan Hin public park in Phuket City.

Phuket pineapples are said to be the island's litmus test for good times. People say they can tell a good year from a bad year in its sweetness, and attempts to grow the Phuket variety have not produced the same quality.

More than 200 nurseries and flower sellers will have trees, shrubs and plants of all kinds on display. About 10 million baht is expected to be spent on the greenery.

Other goods and food will be available.

But we understand there is no chance of the durians, rambutans, mangosteens or jackfruit playing more than a supporting role: On this island, spiky or not, the juicy Phuket pineapples rule.