Guide Note

Modern strawberries are a hybrid fruit, derived from a cross between several varieties that existed in North America and Chile in the 18th century. This hybrid has a larger size and sweeter flavor than any single strawberry species did hundreds of years ago.

Fast Facts

1. High in Vitamin C
2. World's most popular berry fruit
3. Consumed primarily by the rich until the mid 19th century
4. The United States is the world's largest strawberry producer
5. Of the genus "Fragraria," from the Latin for "fragrant"
6. A popular flavor of jam and ice cream

Aside from being rich in manganese and dietary fiber, one cup of strawberries has over %125 of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Studies suggest that eating Vitamin C-rich foods can help prevent rheumatoid arthritis.

Strawberries contain a polyphenol known as ellagitannin that has been linked to lower cancer rates, though it is unknown whether a food's antioxidant content directly relates to decreasing cancer risk.

Strawberries are not classified as "true berries" as their seeds are on the outside, as opposed to other berries that have their seeds on the inside. Botanists consider strawberries an "accessory fruit," as the edible part is derived from a tissue other than the plant's ovary.