There are several varieties of white strawberries. The true species (Fragaria vesca, Fragaria chiloensis) which are known as Alpine strawberries and Beach strawberries will grow true from seed as they are not hybrids. The Beach strawberry was instrumental in the cross-breeding that resulted in the large, red, plump strawberry varieties available today. Keoki and Pineberry strawberries are hybrids, thus they will never be able to produce plants from seed. Plants will only produce from cuttings. Red strawberries contain protein redden, which transforms their color to red when they reach full ripeness. White strawberries are either deficient in or completely lack this protein. Red and white strawberries share the same molecule, which is responsible for the aroma of ripe strawberries.

White strawberries have similar characteristics to Red strawberries, yet their coloring, size and their flavor distinguish them. The flesh is ivory white with pink blushes and red seeds on the skin. All varieties of strawberries have seeds on the skin rather than skin around the seed, which distinguishes them from a berry and a true fruit. The texture of any white strawberry is tender firm when ripe with varied levels of succulence and sweetness. Hybrid varieties tend to be sweeter than than true species of strawberries. All white strawberries will maintain similar flavor compositions characterized by notes of pineapple, green leaves, caramel and grapes.

Serving Ideas

White strawberries are versatile because of their varied sugar content and acidity. Wherever strawberries are called within a recipe, white strawberries can easily be utilized. White strawberries can be used in preparations both sweet and savory, raw and cooked. They can be eaten fresh out of hand whole, sliced, pureed and used within ice creams, gelatos, granitas, sorbets and cocktails. Complimentary pairings include, vanilla, oranges, pineapple, cloves, grapefruit, lemons, limes, watermelon, cream, yogurt, ginger, brown sugar, chiles, bacon, cheeses such as blue cheese, feta and chevre, basil, mint, lemon verbena, fennel and lavender.

Geography/History

The two species of white strawberries are native to both the Old World and the New World. Fragaria vesca is native to Europe. Fragaria chiloensis is a wild species of strawberry native to Chili. They continue to grow in wild and domesticated form, though their commercial relevance is slight.