A rose by any other name might be called a strawberry. Well, perhaps not. But, strawberries are in the rose family. Instead of creating a “hip” which contains the seed of the plant encased and protected, the strawberry swells with the seeds on the outside in a reverse seed pod (or “hip” of sorts). Strawberries are the only plants known to seed on the outside of the pod.

The strawberry is not really a berry or a fruit. The part cultivated and consumed is the enlarged end of the plant stamen (stamen are the male reproductive organs of the plant). These luscious treats might best be thought of as “California oysters,” since California is the top producer of the macho red stamens. Florida ranks second in terms of commercial production. All states in the U.S. claim strawberry crops with various wild and cultivated varieties sprinkled from coast to coast.

A rule of thumb is that the smaller berries (generally wild) are the sweetest. Larger berries tend to be firmer and easier to pack and ship. Most strawberries purchased will be the larger, commercial berries that pack more bang for the berry as far as size. Taste varies from patch to patch and year to year.

History of the Strawberry

Wild strawberries date back at least 2000 years, and commercial berries are traced back at least to the mid-1800s. Over the years, strawberries have been crossbred to fit various climates and to extend growing seasons. Though there are numerous commercial varieties, berries fit in the following categories:

June bearing – The bulk of strawberries are in the early spring category. They bloom and fruit in May/June. These tend to be the sweetest of the fruiting strawberries.

Ever bearing – Ever bearing have two distinct seasons—one larger crop in spring and a second later in the year. These berries extend the consumption season.

Day-Neutral – Some of the newest varieties produce throughout the growing season. Taste is compromised to some extent to maintain production, but day-neutrals ensure a constant supply.

Regardless of the type, strawberries tend to fruit out in spurts. This means feast or famine when it comes to strawberries, unless imports are used to flesh out the local produce. Larger cities may carry fresh strawberries during the bulk of the year especially in temperate climate zones; however, most town groceries will offer strawberries in the spring and sporadically during the growing seasons.

When faced with a good availability of strawberries and after eating as many fresh berries as humanly possible, most consumers begin to look for different ways to serve and enjoy strawberries.