Strawberry
Family Rosaceae
Fragaria sp., the cultivated strawberry (Fr. sp 1), is a perennial herb, producing runners bearing small leaf clusters, which take root and grow into new plants. The leaves are trifoliate (Fr. sp 2); the flowers are white, up to 3 cm across. The fruit is a pseudocarp or false fruit, consisting of the enlarged juicy receptacle, on the surface of which the small dry fruits or achenes are embedded.
Distribution
The cultivated strawberry as we know it today is the result of crossings between the American species Fragaria virginiana from the eastern US, which was introduced into Europe early in the 17th century, and Fragaria chiloensis from the western US, which reached Europe a century later. From the 19th century onwards many new varieties were developed (Fr. sp 3), (Fr. sp 4), differing in seize, flavour and texture of the fruit, as well as in the resistance to disease and the ability to bear a second crop.
Use
Strawberries are one of the most popular fruits in the temperate regions (Fr. sp 5) They are eaten fresh, or made into preserves. Large quantities are also canned and used as fillings for pastries.
Biggest producers are the US, Italy, Poland, Japan, Mexico, France, Russia, the UK, Spain and Germany.