Toukun strawberries, also known as Tokun strawberries, are a member of the Rosaceae family and an herbaceous perennial.

The toukun strawberry is round and well-formed with a shape that resembles a small peach. The toukun strawberry is over 1 inch in length with a glossy salmon pink hued exterior. Its white meat is juicy and tender. Its flavor tastes of sweet coconut and peach leaving a hint of caramel in the mouth at the finish.

Serving Ideas

The sweet peach flavor of toukun strawberries makes them perfect for eating fresh. Serve simply, sliced and paired with sweet cream or yogurt. Add to fruit and green salads. Their sweet flavor and attractive coloring will complement dessert preparations such as pies, tarts, ice cream and cakes.

Geography/History

Toukun strawberries are the result of an intensive experimentation at National Institute of Agriculture and Food Research Organization and the National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region. Registered as a new breed in 2011 the name, toukun means "the scent of peaches" a nod to their peach like shape and aroma. Two kanji characters are used in the name to indicate that they were created from the hybrid cross of strawberries from China. At this time there are not many growers harvesting toukun strawberries, however they can be found at high-end department stores or Tsukiji market in Japan. They are harvested in Kumamoto prefecture, Shizuoka prefecture and Ibaragi prefecture.

Seasons/Availability

Toukun strawberries are available in the winter to early spring months.