Wild Strawberry

Description:

Fragaria vesca, commonly called wild strawberries or woodland strawberry, is a plant that grows naturally throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Other names for this species include Alpine Strawberry, Fraises des Bois, Wild Strawberry, and European Strawberry. Evidence from archaeological excavations suggests that Fragaria vesca has been consumed by humans since the Stone Age. The woodland strawberry was first cultivated in ancient Persia where farmers knew the fruit as Toot Farangi.

Habitat:

Typical habitat is along trails and roadsides, embankments, hillsides, stone- and gravel-laid paths and roads, meadows, young woodlands, sparse forest, woodland edges, and clearings. Often plants can be found where they do not get sufficient light to form fruit. In the southern part of its range, it can only grow in shady areas; further north it tolerates more sun.[2] It is tolerant of a variety of moisture levels (except very wet or dry conditions).[2] It can survive mild fires and/or establish itself after fires.[2]

Notes:

Tiny little strawberry like fruit, little finger nail size. Fragaria vesca is sometimes used as an herbal medicine; an herbal tea made from the leaves, stems, and flowers is believed to aid in the treatment of diarrhea and stomach infections.