Japan Gourmet Strawberry 'Amaou' - Rare

Amaou Strawberry — Rare Japanese Gourmet Variety

About the Variety
The Amaou Strawberry is one of Japan’s most celebrated gourmet fruits, often called the “King of Strawberries.” Grown originally in Fukuoka Prefecture, its name is an acronym that highlights its qualities: Amai (sweet), Marui (round), Ookii (big), and Umai (delicious). Berries are exceptionally large, with glossy deep red skin, conical shape, and a rich, sweet flavor balanced with gentle acidity. They are prized for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and are often considered a luxury fruit, sold individually or in gift boxes in Japan.

Growth Habit

Type: Perennial strawberry.

Fruit Size: Large to extra-large berries, often bigger than standard cultivars.

Fruit Color: Deep crimson red, uniform and glossy.

Flavor Profile: Intensely sweet with a balanced, mild tartness.

Yield: Moderate — grown more for quality than heavy yields.

Cultural Status: Considered a delicacy in Japan, often commanding premium prices in markets.

Care & Cultivation

Light: Full sun for maximum sugar development and berry color.

Soil: Fertile, well-draining soil, slightly acidic. Raised beds or containers recommended for drainage.

Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during fruiting. Avoid water on leaves and fruit to reduce rot.

Spacing: 12–18 inches apart, allowing for air circulation.

Fertilization: Use a strawberry-specific or balanced organic fertilizer during growth and flowering.

Propagation: By runners or tissue culture; true Amaou plants are often closely controlled in Japan.

Why It’s Special
Amaou Strawberries are not just fruit — they are a cultural luxury. In Japan, a single berry can sell for several dollars, and carefully packed boxes are given as high-end gifts. Their combination of size, sweetness, and beauty makes them one of the rarest and most sought-after strawberries worldwide.

Our Growing Practices
All of our plants are cultivated here in the USA, grown from seed, cuttings, or tissue culture. This ensures strong genetics, healthy plants, and a reliable source for gardeners who want to add heirloom, rare, or gourmet fruit varieties to their collection.