Ornament - Summer Strawberries

Luscious, delicious, summer strawberries! Believe it or not, these fabulous fruits are actually a member of the Rosaceae or ROSE plant family. Unlike the flower, however, they are in the fragaria genus. Botanically, strawberries are not considered berries at all because the seeds are on the outside of the flesh; with each strawberry carrying an impressive (average) 200 seeds. There are lots of myths, legends and stories associated with the strawberry and its origins. One of the most common is that when Adonis died, Venus cried so much her tears fell to earth, turning into small, heart-shaped red berries . . . strawberries. Strawberries are thought to bring love and luck. However, one superstition about these glorious berries, maintains that eating too many strawberries when you are pregnant will result in strawberry birthmarks on the baby. Historically, however, strawberries were used by Native Americans in breads -- something that the settlers adopted that eventually evolved into what we now enjoy as Strawberry Shortcake. This favorite, summertime fruit is beautifully depicted in this photographic print on this gorgeous ornament. A wonderful, if unexpected, addition to your holiday tree, this delightful ornament is also a terrific decoration for gift packages and baskets . . . especially (of course) a basket full of scrumptious, summer strawberries.