Green Strawberry
fragaria viridis
Also known as: ["Wild Strawberry","European Wild Strawberry"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its small, greenish-white flowers and edible, seed-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Fragaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fragaria viridis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or aged manure.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; remove runners as needed during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to dappled light in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.8).
Test soil pH annually; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding; stop fertilizing when dormant.
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.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or use a commercial seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base; snip off runners near the root; trim damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased foliage; thin overcrowded stems to improve air circulation; encourage new growth and fruiting.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/diseased parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; overcrowding reduces fruiting.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or flower/fruit drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; frost can kill tender parts.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or fruit drop due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFragaria viridis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant, including its fruit, is safe for feline consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicFragaria viridis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant, including its fruit, is safe for canine consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicFragaria viridis, commonly known as green strawberry, is not considered toxic to humans. The fruit is edible and has been consumed without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Fragaria viridis edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and have a unique, slightly acidic flavor.
Q: Does Fragaria viridis require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but prefers cooler climates.
Q: How does Fragaria viridis spread?
A: It spreads via runners (stolons) and can form dense mats over time.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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