False Strawberry
waldsteinia geoides
Also known as: ["Yellow Alpine Strawberry","Barren Strawberry"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and strawberry-like leaves, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Waldsteinia |
| Botanical Name: | Waldsteinia geoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: ground cover in rock gardens or woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight daily, with protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; shield from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold but requires protection from extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in hot, drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures for flowering.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is preferred for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep warm and shaded until rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Moderate humidity; indirect light; consistent moisture for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated directly in the garden.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, mature plant in 1–2 seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), pots or garden space.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years; use clean tools to prevent disease; water cuttings lightly until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old growth; thin crowded areas; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or root-bound; typically every 2–3 years for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; topdress with organic mulch.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or crown dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; frost can damage foliage and flowers if not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover with frost cloth during freezes; plant in sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, flower abortion, and leaf scorch; reduced vigor in high temperatures.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWaldsteinia geoides is not known to be toxic to cats. No adverse effects have been reported following ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicWaldsteinia geoides is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicWaldsteinia geoides is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Waldsteinia geoides produce edible fruit?
A: No, despite its name and appearance, Waldsteinia geoides does not produce edible fruit.
Q: How does Waldsteinia geoides spread?
A: It spreads by rhizomes and stolons, forming dense mats over time.
Q: Is Waldsteinia geoides suitable for ground cover?
A: Yes, its low-growing habit and spreading nature make it an excellent ground cover for shady areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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