Australian strawberry growers and investors have reason to celebrate with the launch of the new Stella-ASBP strawberry variety. This high-yielding, disease-resistant strawberry has been over five years in the making, developed through a collaborative effort between Australian growers, plant breeding experts, and Hort Innovation in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF). The Stella-ASBP variety is now available across all states and territories of Australia.
The introduction of Stella-ASBP represents a significant advancement in the agricultural sector, offering not only a consistently sweet flavor, vibrant red appearance, and desirable mouthfeel for consumers, but also substantial benefits for growers. The variety’s natural ability to produce abundant fruit enhances production efficiency, making it a promising option for those looking to invest in the agri-business sector.
According to Andrew Francey, the General Manager of Industry Service and Delivery at Hort Innovation, this new variety is poised to have a positive impact across the industry. “This new variety, developed closely with Australian growers, offers consumers a consistently sweet flavor, aroma, mouthfeel, and bright red appearance. Stella-ASBP also delivers a boost to production efficiency because of the abundant fruit Stella-ASBP plants are naturally bred to produce,” he stated.
The development of Stella-ASBP is part of a broader breeding program that has delivered 17 strawberry varieties, accounting for more than 50 percent of the varieties grown nationally and 85 percent of those cultivated in Queensland. This program, which has garnered significant industry support, represents the largest investment in recent years by strawberry growers in Australia.
Rachel Mackenzie, CEO of Berries Australia, emphasized the industry’s enthusiasm for this new variety. “It is an understatement to say our sub-tropical strawberry growers are delighted with Stella-ASBP. The industry has played a critical role in working alongside breeding experts and supporting consumer preference testing to see this latest variety realized. Consumers are going to love it,” she remarked.
In addition to its commercial potential, the Stella-ASBP variety offers a crucial advantage: resistance to red leaf disorder, a condition that can severely impact plant health and yield. This resistance further enhances the variety’s appeal to growers who are seeking reliable and resilient crop options.
The Stella-ASBP strawberry also carries a meaningful legacy, being named in honor of the late Australian comedian, journalist, and disability rights activist Stella Young. Dr. Jodi Neal, Principal Plant Breeder at DAF, highlighted this tribute, noting, “Through this variety, we are extremely pleased to be able to pay tribute to the late Australian comedian, journalist, and disability rights activist Stella Young and her legacy.”
For entrepreneurs and investors seeking opportunities in the agricultural sector, particularly those interested in sustainable and efficient farming practices, the Stella-ASBP strawberry presents a compelling proposition. With the variety’s strong consumer appeal and the support of the Australian horticultural industry, it is well-positioned to become a staple in the market, contributing to the growth and success of Australian strawberry production.
