Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca)

Wild Strawberry

Fragaria vesca

Tiny white blooms carry sweet summer promise; edible red fruits dot low-growing foliage. Low-growing perennial herb; common names: alpine strawberry, wild strawberry.

Full sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; prefers dappled shade in hot summer climates to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid prolonged dry periods during fruiting season
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool temperate conditions; protect from extreme heat above 32°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate with toothed margins, bright green, softly pubescent
  • Flower: Small five-petaled white blooms with prominent yellow stamens
  • Fruit: Small red edible achenes embedded on fleshy red receptacles
  • Stem: Slender trailing runners for vegetative propagation
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain even soil moisture; apply mulch to retain moisture

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare plants for dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench to boost fruit production
Pruning
  • Trim dead or yellowing foliage in late autumn to reduce disease risk
  • Remove excess runners to focus energy on fruiting plants
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in spring to improve airflow and light penetration
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion

Humans: No known toxicity; fruits and leaves are edible in moderate quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes purity and sweetness in European folklore; used in traditional herbal remedies for mild ailments

Usage: Edible fruits for fresh eating or jams; ornamental ground cover; herbal tea from dried leaves