Indian strawberry
duchesnea indica
Also known as: ["Mock strawberry","Yellow strawberry"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with trifoliate leaves and small yellow flowers resembling strawberries, though its fruits are not true strawberries.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Duchesnea |
| Botanical Name: | Duchesnea indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent leaf burn; place in filtered light during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil drains well; amend with organic matter for fertility; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly to prevent burning; stop in fall/winter; apply to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of runners; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, remove lower leaves, plant in medium, keep moist, provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back straggly stems; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or overcrowded stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools, prune dead/damaged stems, shape plant, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDuchesnea indica is not considered toxic to cats. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicDuchesnea indica is not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous nature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicDuchesnea indica, commonly known as Indian strawberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, consuming large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritants.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Indian strawberry edible?
A: Yes, the small yellow fruits are edible but have a bland taste compared to true strawberries.
Q: Does Indian strawberry spread aggressively?
A: It can spread via runners but is generally not considered invasive.
Q: Can Indian strawberry be grown in shade?
A: Yes, it tolerates partial to full shade and can thrive in such conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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