WSU Clark County Extension

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Beach Strawberry

Scientific name: Fragaria chiloensis

Taxonomy
Family:Rosaceae
Type:Groundcovers Herbaceus
Native:YES
Plant Requirements
Zone:5 to 9
Sun:Full sun
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:0 ft
Width:3 ft
Bloom:Showy flowers
Bloom Time:May
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description As the founding native species of the modern day cultivated strawberry cultivars, Beach Strawberry is recognized by leathery glossy leaves on long stems which form a dense groundcover.

  Morphology:
This herbaceous groundcover bears tri-foliate leaves which are nearly round in shape with round toothed edges. The leaves are densely hairy on the underside. The plants spread by prostate stems known as rhizomes.

Flowers, forming in mid spring, are white and fairly large (up to 1” across). Each flower has 5 petals as with other members of the Rose family.

Flowers morph to small strawberry fruit (approximately 1”) across and are extremely flavorful with a pleasing fragrance.

  Adaptation:
Does best under full sun on well drained sites. Grows in ocean dunes and beaches as well as onto adjacent grasslands

  Pests:
Generally pest free.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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