Is a strawberry a berry?

Is a strawberry a berry?

No, not in the strict botanical sense. A true berry develops from a single flower with a single ovary, as with blueberries, grapes or tomatoes. A strawberry instead develops from a flower with many separate ovaries, and the red part we eat is the swollen flower base, while each tiny seed-like dot on its surface is technically its own separate fruit. This makes a strawberry what botanists call an aggregate accessory fruit, not a true berry.

In everyday language and in cooking, however, a strawberry is always called a berry, since it looks, tastes and is used just like other berries. Strawberry is also a healthy and nutritious choice, as it contains plenty of vitamin C, fiber and other useful nutrients. It is a popular summer delicacy and is versatilely used in various dishes and desserts.

Sources: Helsingin Sanomat