Prairie Restorations Logo
Shop Online

Fragaria virginiana

Home » Plants » Fragaria virginiana
Fragaria Virginiana 4 Fragaria Virginiana 3 Fragaria Virginiana 2 Fragaria Virginiana 1 Fragaria Virginiana Fragaria Virginiana 8 Fragaria Virginiana 6 Fragaria Virginiana 5
Fragaria Virginiana 4 Fragaria Virginiana 3 Fragaria Virginiana 2 Fragaria Virginiana 1 Fragaria Virginiana Fragaria Virginiana 8 Fragaria Virginiana 6 Fragaria Virginiana 5

Fragaria virginiana

Common Name: Wild Strawberry

Wild Strawberry is a low-growing perennial groundcover reaching 4 to 8 inches in height. It spreads by runners, forming dense mats of foliage with trifoliate leaves and producing small, fragrant white flowers in spring, followed by sweet, red edible berries in early summer. This species thrives in open fields, woodland edges, and along roadsides and railroads, preferring well-drained soils. The berries are an important food source for wildlife and were historically used by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine. It is excellent for erosion control, wildlife gardens, and as a native alternative to turfgrass in sunny to partially shaded areas.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 12
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 20
Bloom month(s) April, May, June
Bloom Color or Type White
Dominance High

Range Maps

Fragaria Virginiana Usa Range Map
Fragaria Virginiana Mn Range Map

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.
Back to all Plants