Strawberries Are True Berries Despite their name, strawberries aren’t botanically classified as berries. True berries, like blueberries and bananas, develop from a single ovary. Strawberries, however, develop from a flower's multiple ovaries, making them an aggregate fruit.
Strawberries Always Grow Wild While wild strawberries exist, most strawberries we eat today are cultivated varieties selectively bred for size, flavor, and shelf life. The wild versions are much smaller and less sweet.
Strawberries Are Only Red Strawberries are commonly red, but they can also be white, yellow, or even purple, depending on the variety. White strawberries, like pineberries, have a unique pineapple-like flavor.
Bigger Strawberries Are Sweeter The size of a strawberry doesn’t determine its sweetness. Smaller, wild strawberries are often much sweeter and more flavorful than their larger, cultivated counterparts.
Strawberries Are Native to All Continents Strawberries originated from Europe and the Americas, but they are not native to Africa, Australia, or Antarctica. The cultivated varieties we enjoy today are hybrids from these original regions.
Strawberries Are Loaded with Seeds What appears to be seeds on the surface of strawberries are actually tiny fruits called achenes, each containing a single seed. These achenes develop from the flower’s ovaries.
Strawberries Are Always Safe to Eat Raw While generally safe, strawberries can harbor harmful pesticides or bacteria if not washed properly. It’s essential to clean them thoroughly before consumption to avoid potential health risks.