‘ merced ’ is a short - day type cultivar that produces fruit over an extended period when treated appropriately in arid , sub - tropical climates . when treated with appropriate planting regimes , ‘ merced ’ is similar to ‘ camarosa ’ , but with greater productivity , higher quality fruit , less vigorous plant , and lighter colored fruit . it is also similar to ‘ ventana ’ and ‘ benicia ’ but having a more compact plant , later fruiting , superior fruit quality , and firmer , better flavored fruit .