Pineberries: The White Strawberry That Tastes Like Pineapple

A few days ago, I stumbled upon a peculiar-looking berry at my local farmer’s market. Among the sea of bright red strawberries, these little white gems stood out, with their red seeds and subtle pink blush. Intrigued, I decided to give them a try. To my surprise, they had a delightful hint of pineapple flavor! These intriguing fruits are called pineberries, also known as white strawberries, and they’ve quickly become a favorite in my household.

What Are Pineberries?

Pineberries, or white strawberries, are essentially strawberries with a twist—they’re white with red seeds. They’re a hybrid between Japanese white strawberries and regular Florida strawberries. The name “pineberry” comes from their subtle pineapple aftertaste, which makes them stand out from the usual strawberries we’re all familiar with.

History of The White Strawberries

Pineberries might seem new and trendy, but their roots go back quite a bit. White strawberries were grown by Indigenous people in Chile over a thousand years ago. More recently, variations of white strawberries have been cultivated in Asia, though these aren’t suitable for growing in the U.S. The Florida Pearl® is a modern development, created to thrive in American gardens and farms.

Pineberries vs. Strawberries

Though they look different, pineberries are closely related to regular strawberries. Here’s how they stack up:

• Color: Pineberries, or white strawberries, are white with red seeds and develop a pink blush when ripe.
• Size: They’re smaller than typical strawberries, about the size of a quarter.
• Taste: They have a softer texture and a mild pineapple flavor, though not everyone can detect it.

Despite these differences, pineberries need the same growing conditions as red strawberries, thriving in cool nights and warm, sunny days.

Where to Buy Pineberries

Pineberries, or white strawberries, are becoming more common, especially in farmer’s markets and specialty food stores. They’re usually available during the same seasons as regular strawberries—November to April in Florida and January to October in California. However, they are still a niche fruit, so they tend to be pricier and more delicate than their red counterparts.

How to Store Pineberries

Like other berries, pineberries are highly perishable. Here are some tips to keep these white strawberries fresh:

• Refrigerate immediately: As soon as you get home, place the berries in the fridge.
• Wash before eating: Avoid washing until you’re ready to eat them to extend their shelf life.
• Bring to room temperature: Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before using to enhance their flavor.

How to Use Pineberries

Pineberries can be used just like regular strawberries. Here are some ideas:

• Snacking: Eat these white strawberries fresh or add to cereal along with other berries.
• Fruit Salads: Pair white strawberries with tropical fruits for a colorful mix.
• Desserts: Top waffles, toast, parfaits, or cheesecakes with these pretty berries.
• Cocktails: Use pineberries as a garnish for a unique touch.
• Salads: Add chopped white strawberries to salads or blend them into dressings.

Growing Pineberries at Home

If you’re a backyard gardener, you’ll be pleased to know that pineberries, or white strawberries, are easy to grow. They can be a unique addition to your existing strawberry patch or planted on their own for some landscape interest. They grow similarly to red strawberries, with trailing runners and delicate white flowers. Cross-pollination with red strawberries can boost their yield, and they’re less appealing to birds, making them easier to grow without losing your crop to wildlife.

Conclusion

Pineberries, also known as white strawberries, are a delightful twist on the classic strawberry, offering a unique flavor and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re adding them to your garden or picking them up at the market, these white strawberries are sure to become a conversation starter and a tasty addition to your fruit repertoire. So next time you see these intriguing white berries, don’t hesitate to give them a try—you might just find a new favorite!