Californian Strawberry

Fragaria vesca

Physical Characteristics

Fragaria vesca is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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

South-western N. America - California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Coffee Tea Fruit - raw[105, 161, 257]. Aromatic, sweet and succulent[183]. The fruit can also be dried for later use[177, 183]. The fruit is about 15mm in diameter[200]. The fresh or dried leaves are used to brew an excellent tea[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Antirheumatic Astringent Diuretic Dysentery Laxative Tonic The leaves are astringent. A decoction has been used in the treatment of dysentery[257].

Known Hazards

None known