Beach Strawberry, Pacific beach strawberry, Sandwich beach strawberry

Fragaria chiloensis

Physical Characteristics

Fragaria chiloensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from June to July. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

S. America to N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Ground Cover; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 27, 101, 183, 257]. Large, sweet and succulent with a delicate flavour[183]. A delicious treat[K]. The berries can be used to make jams, preserves etc[257]. A tea can be made from the leaves[257].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Astringent Emmenagogue Galactogogue Odontalgic The plant is antiseptic, astringent, emmenagogue, galactogogue and odontalgic[172]. It has been used to regulate the menstrual cycle[172]. A poultice of the chewed leaves has been used to treat burns[257].

Known Hazards

None known