Hautbois Strawberry

Fragaria moschata

Physical Characteristics

Fragaria moschata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to July, and the seeds ripen from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) 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.

Distribution

C. Europe. Perhaps occasionally naturalized in Britain.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw. Sweet and succulent. The fruit is small but has an excellent flavour and is very aromatic[61, 142, 183, K]. It is greatly superior to the cultivated strawberries, but is not very freely produced[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known