Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)

Wild Strawberry

Fragaria virginiana

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

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve 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.