1. * California Wood Strawberry – Fragaria vesca ssp. californica
(frag-AY-ree-uh VES-kuh)
Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
North America to Baja. In CA, mountain ranges throughout the state including San
Bernardino & San Jacinto Mtns and San Diego Coastal Ranges; on hillsides, along paths and roads
and in sparse forest or woodland edges and clearings. Will grow, but not fruit, in shady areas.
Native to:
herbaceous perennial
mature height: < 1 ft.
mature width: 2-4+ ft.
Spreading herbaceous perennial that dies back in fall. Leaves are medium green, typical 3-lobed
strawberry leaves. Plant reproduces by seed, rhizomes and stolons (above-ground ‘runners’ that
produce new plantlets). Very attractive low ground-cover plant. Vigorous growth.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms spring/summer, usually Mar.-June in western L.A. Co. Flowers are small
(smaller than F. chiloensis), with white petals typical of strawberries. Charming and old-fashioned
looking. Fruits are tasty red strawberries – larger than F. chiloensis fruits. Fruits make excellent
jams and are also good eaten fresh. Leaves make a soothing tea.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: One of the best native groundcover plants for shady areas like under oaks and
conifers. Will produce lots of tasty fruits if grown in dappled shade. Dainty old-fashioned look – pair
it with shade-loving perennials like Columbine and Coral Bells.
Nice choice for edging paths,
around stepping stones, in strawberry pots. Perfect for scented and/or woodland gardens.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native strawberries.
Attracts: Butterflies like the nectar, and just about anything likes the fruits!!!
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun, dappled or part-shade. Will grow in quite shady areas, but no fruit.
Any, including clays. Any local pH including acidic soils under pines.
Wide range: occasional water to regular water (Zone 2 to 3).
Try half-strength fertilizer – or use organic mulch (leaf mulch is fine)
Little needed. Will spread but easy to remove in unwanted areas. Individual plants
die after about 3 years, but is always producing new plants. Cover to keep birds from eat fruits.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: yes – but naturally reseeds
by cuttings: divisions - easy
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 8, 11, 13, 14, 20
2/9/11
* Native to CA but not to western L.A. Co.
© Project SOUND