A strawberry is the only fruit which seeds grow on the outside

A Strawberry: The Only Fruit with Seeds on the Outside

Strawberries are universally loved for their sweet and tangy flavors. Their vibrant red color and juicy texture make them a delight to eat, especially during the summer season. However, there is a fascinating fact about strawberries that sets them apart from all other fruits - their seeds grow on the outside!

This unique characteristic of strawberries is not something commonly known. In fact, many people believe that the tiny seeds you see on the outside of a strawberry are not actually seeds at all. However, the truth is that each of those tiny specks is indeed a seed!

Unlike most fruits, where the seeds are concealed within the flesh, strawberries have their achenes (the proper term for the small seeds) on the outside. These achenes are considered true seeds, each containing the genetic material necessary for the growth and development of a new strawberry plant.

This distinctive feature makes strawberries part of a select group known as “accessory fruits.” An accessory fruit is not formed solely from the ovary of a flower but also includes other parts of the flower, such as the receptacle (the base on which the flower sits). In the case of strawberries, the fleshy red part we commonly eat is the enlarged receptacle, while the tiny seeds dotting the surface are the true fruits.

The reason for strawberries having their seeds on the outside lies in their evolutionary adaptation for better seed dispersal. A strawberry plant’s primary aim is to ensure the survival and growth of its offspring. By having the seeds on the outside, strawberries can entice animals, including humans, to consume the fruit and spread their seeds to new locations. As the seeds pass through the digestive system, they remain intact, ready to be excreted and start sprouting in a new environment.

With their unique appearance and extraordinary taste, strawberries have become a symbol of summer and a staple in various culinary creations. Whether you enjoy them fresh, in desserts, or blended into smoothies, strawberries are a treat that offers not only a burst of flavor but also an intriguing insight into the diversity of fruits in nature.

Sources:

• Food Republic