From the Top: Albion, Rosa, Eclaire, and Seascape Strawberries

Strawberries may possibly be the most plentiful summer fruit at the market these days. Many people don’t know that there are actually several varieties of strawberries, and those of you who do might wonder how to choose between them! Well, you can’t really go wrong with any of these delicious offerings, but, there are indeed a couple key differences amongst them.  Thank you to Spencer from Tomatero Farms, Minnie from Blue House, and Sylvia and Justice from Yerena Farms for breaking down the features of the strawberry varieties they bring to market…

Albion – These big guys are one of the most common commercial strawberry varieties grown in California, particularly in the northern parts.  They are firm, hollow, and more sugary than other kinds of strawberries. Minnie from Blue House said that Albion is a “classic, sweet, juicy red berry which is great for baking or snacking.”

Chandler – The most commonly grown variety across the United States, Sylvia from Yerena says that they are “the most juicy.” Although we do not have one pictured above, Chandler’s vary from being long and wedge-shaped to large and conical.

Éclair – With their early season productivity a big plus for farmers, Sylvia likes this variety for their light sweetness.  Typically, she says, they are white on the inside.

Rosa – Another great choice, Spencer describes the Rosas as “smaller and juicier” with a more tropical flavor that is reminiscent of pineapple.

Seascape – Developed at UC-Davis, this variety is hearty and resistant to many diseases that can afflict strawberries while they are growing.   Sylvia says the Seascapes are “sweet, with a little bit of sourness.”

Sweet Ann – A newer variety on the strawberry scene that is making waves for being very flavorful, Spencer calls them “big, very sweet, and more juicy” than other varieties. They are larger, with medium firmness, and can have a sharper conical shape.

So next time you are at the Mission Mercado, keep an eye out for these varieties and don’t hold back–ask the farmers which berry is right for you!