Wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)

Wild strawberry

Also known as: Mountain strawberry, Scarlet strawberry

Wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) is one of the two species that were cultivated to breed the domestic strawberry. Although the wild strawberry is edible, the fruit is much smaller than that of the domestic strawberry. This plant is native to North America.

Scientific classification

Species

Wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Late spring

Harvest Time

10 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Wild strawberry

Distribution of Wild strawberry

Distribution Map

Wild strawberry, a perennial plant, is natively found in the temperate regions of North America. It has been introduced to various other temperate zones across the Northern Hemisphere. Its cultivation extends beyond its native range, where it thrives under human care in parts of Europe and Asia, as well as in select regions of the Americas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Fields, open slopes, woodland edges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Wild strawberry is low-growing and suited for planting as groundcover for landscaping. It is also valued for its rapid rate of growth. This plant blooms with attractive white blossoms in the mid-to-late spring season. The berries appear later in the early summer season.

Symbolism

Love, Luck. Used For Love Spells, Its symbolism is that of love, temptation, passion, and rewarded effort.

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Quickly Identify Wild strawberry

Low-growing habit up to 5 inches (13 cm) tall and spreading 2 feet (60 cm) wide.

Trifoliate leaves with toothed margins and oval-shaped leaflets.

White flowers with five round petals in flat clusters, each 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) wide.

Small, red, juicy fruit with a distinct aroma, 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) in diameter.

Distinct veination on leaves, 3 obovate leaflets each 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long.

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Care Guide for Wild strawberry

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wild strawberry thrives in moist woodland environments and prefers consistent moisture without waterlogging. Watering twice a week is ideal, especially during the active growing season, to ensure adequate moisture for optimal health and fruit production.

Fertilize: For optimal health, wild strawberry requires balanced fertilizers every two months during the growing season, using a half-strength solution to prevent root burn. Adjust fertilization as wild strawberry enters dormancy in cooler months, ideally applying after rain to enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Wild strawberry produces sweet red berries and thrives with early spring pruning. Trim dead or diseased parts to boost growth and fruit yield, while enhancing airflow to reduce fungal risks. Use sterilized tools to prevent disease transmission, focusing energy on fruit production over foliage.

Propagation: Wild strawberry is a native perennial prized for its sweet berries and groundcover abilities, thriving in well-drained soil and light to partial shade. Propagation occurs via division; ensure each section has healthy roots, replant at the same depth, and maintain consistent soil moisture.

Repotting: Repot wild strawberry every 2-3 years in early spring using a shallow, wide pot to support runner growth. After repotting, provide ample sunlight and maintain even moisture without waterlogging. Use rich, well-draining soil to promote healthy growth while minimizing root disturbance during repotting.

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Images of Wild strawberry

Distribution of Wild strawberry

Culture

Quickly Identify Wild strawberry

Care Guide for Wild strawberry

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