If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens at a Rare Fruit Council International (RFCI) meeting — or if you’re thinking about joining but aren’t quite sure what to expect — consider this your insider look. 🌴🍍
Every month in Miami, fruit enthusiasts of all experience levels gather to do what we love most: learn, share, and celebrate rare and tropical fruit. Whether you’re growing jackfruit in your backyard, experimenting with sapodilla, or just beginning to explore the incredible diversity of tropical fruit, RFCI meetings are designed to be welcoming, educational, and enjoyable.
Learning From Experts and Fellow Growers
Each meeting features an educational presentation from an experienced grower, researcher, or guest speaker. These talks often focus on specific fruits, growing techniques, or broader topics related to tropical agriculture and sustainable food systems.
Members have the opportunity to ask questions, share their own experiences, and take part in open discussions that often continue long after the presentation ends.
From backyard gardeners to researchers, RFCI meetings bring together people who share a passion for tropical fruit.
Fruit tastings are another highlight of many meetings. Members frequently bring rare, seasonal, or hard-to-find varieties to share with the group, offering a chance to experience flavors that most people have never encountered before. It’s not unusual for someone to discover a new favorite fruit during one of these gatherings.
A Community for Beginners and Experts
One of the things that makes RFCI special is the variety of people who attend. Meetings bring together home gardeners just getting started, longtime growers with decades of experience, researchers and educators, rare fruit collectors, and curious newcomers who simply love fruit.
The atmosphere is friendly and open, and no question is ever considered too small. If you’re interested in tropical fruit, you’ll find yourself among people who are eager to share what they know.
No matter your experience level, if you’re curious about tropical fruit, you belong here.
Rooted in Miami’s Tropical Climate
Miami’s unique climate makes it one of the best places in the United States to grow tropical and subtropical fruit, and RFCI has been part of that community since 1955. Our meetings reflect that history, blending decades of knowledge with new ideas and modern growing techniques suited to South Florida’s environment.
Beyond the presentations and tastings, RFCI meetings are really about connection. Many members form lasting friendships, collaborate on growing projects, and continue learning from one another throughout the year.
That same spirit of community also inspired the new RFCI Member Portal on our website, which gives members another way to stay connected between meetings, listen to speaker presentations, and share recipes and experiences.
Interested in Joining?
If you’re curious about tropical fruit, passionate about plants, or simply looking to connect with others who share your interests, we’d love to have you join us.
Learn more about membership and upcoming meetings on our Join the Council page.
And if you’re not quite ready to join yet, feel free to explore our recipes, events, and resources — everyone is welcome!
