PHUKET pineapples are going to be the stars of the island's annual flower and plant show from April 3-5 in Phuket City.

Pineapples that grow only on Phuket will be on show, and for tasting as well. The species that grows on the island is, believe it or not, known as the Phuket pineapple.

Many of the supermarkets on Phuket sell pineapples from other provinces without realising the special qualities of the island-grown version.

Phuket's Agricultural Chief, Somchai Hengwatcharapaiboon, told Phuketwan that the local pineapple deserved to be promoted for its size and sweetness.

It also has a crispy texture and a delightful smell, Khun Somchai said.

Phuketwan's motto is ''sweet Phuket every day'' so we volunteered to do our share of the tasting.

The fair, first of its kind, is an attempt to promote Phuket agriculture and will be followed later in the year (July 24-August 2) by the regular annual flower festival at Saphan Hin public park in Phuket City.

Five hundred pineapples will be available for one baht apiece in ''happy hour'', with a limit of three per person.

The fair is being held on a large space behind Phuket Provincial Hall, close to the Governor's Mansion.

As well as Phuket pineapples, garden plants of all kinds will be on display, along with exotic and common flowers in bloom.

About 70 booths are expected to be open to visitors, with food, of course, available. The seafood, vegetables, eggs, fruit and orchids should be spectacular as usual.

The fair opens from 9am on Friday, April 3, with an official ceremony at 3pm.

The pineapple contest is set for April 4, when activities begin at 9am. ''Happy hour'' for pineapples at one baht apiece starts at 4.30pm each day.