wild strawberry

Fragaria virginiana

characteristics

Low growing perennial with short rhizomes and numerous trailing runners or stolons. Red stems are somewhat hairy. Three green, toothed leaflets on short stalks. Five petalled white flowers bloom with yellow centres in clusters of 2 - 15. Tiny seeds cover the surface of the flavourful red berries. 90% of domestic strawberries originate from this species.

Also known as: common strawberry and Virginia strawberry. Grows just about anywhere. Spreads readily by seed and stolons.

Starts from seed, cuttings, container.

habitat

Fields, open woods, railroads, open slopes, disturbed sites.

uses

Fruit is eaten raw, dried, or used to make jelly or jam. A tea is made using the leaves. Both leaves and fruit are high in vitamin C.