berry · Rosaceae

Strawberry

Fragaria ananassa

Energy
25kcal
Native
Top Producer
IND
Strawberry - a group of strawberries sitting on top of a table

Photo: Mila Vasileva · Unsplash License

Origin & History

Where it comes from

The garden strawberry is a widely grown hybrid plant cultivated worldwide for its fruit. The genus Fragaria, the strawberries, is in the rose family, Rosaceae. The fruit is appreciated for its aroma, bright red colour, juicy texture, and sweetness. It is eaten either fresh or in prepared foods such as jam, ice cream, and chocolates. Artificial strawberry flavourings and aromas are widely used in commercial products. Botanically, the strawberry is not a berry, but an aggregate accessory fruit. Each apparent 'seed' on the outside of the strawberry is actually an achene, a botanical fruit with a seed inside it.

World Production

Where it grows

39.2M
Tonnes · 2024

Note · Strawberry inside FAO 'Other fruits, n.e.c.'

1
India30.47%
2
Viet Nam7.15%
3
China, mainland6.74%
4
Iran (Islamic Republic of)5.97%
5
Burkina Faso3.74%

Source: FAO STAT — Crops and Livestock Products, 2024

Notable facts

Things worth knowing

  1. 01

    The garden strawberry is a hybrid plant, widely cultivated across the globe for its delicious and aromatic fruit.

  2. 02

    Belonging to the rose family, Rosaceae, the strawberry genus is scientifically known as Fragaria ananassa.

  3. 03

    While its native region remains unknown, the strawberry is a popular fruit enjoyed for its bright red color and juicy texture.

  4. 04

    India is currently the top producer of strawberries, contributing significantly to the global production of over 39 million tonnes.

  5. 05

    Strawberries offer a delightful sweetness, with 100 grams containing approximately 3.56 grams of sugar and 2.50 grams of fiber.

Properties

Health & nutrition

  • Strawberries are a good source of Vitamin C, which may support a healthy immune system.
  • The fiber content in strawberries may aid in digestive health and contribute to a feeling of fullness.
  • Potassium, found in strawberries, is an essential mineral that may play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
  • The antioxidants present in strawberries are thought to help protect the body's cells from damage.
  • As a low-calorie fruit, strawberries can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Informational only · not medical advice

In the kitchen

Culinary uses

The strawberry is cherished globally for its versatility in the kitchen. It is most commonly enjoyed fresh, showcasing its natural sweetness and aroma. Beyond fresh consumption, strawberries are a staple ingredient in jams, ice cream, and chocolates, adding their distinctive flavor to a wide array of desserts and confections.

Plates

Specimen photographs

Strawberry - a box filled with lots of ripe strawberries
Sharkie · Unsplash Licensesource
Strawberry - a bowl of strawberries
Sandy Millar · Unsplash Licensesource