~Wild Strawberry~

  Glossy , deep green trifoliate leaves acquire red tints in winter. Vigorous west coast native fits well with woodland gardens.  Tolerates coastal condition where salt spray sensitivity can be a concern.

Bloom:  White flowers in late spring may be followed by small, seedy, red edible berries that will attract birds.

Habit:  4-8" tall and 12-18" in 1 -2 years with reasonable care.   Spreads by above ground runners that root down and continue to spread.  Will spread indefinitely but is not considered invasive. 

Exposure:  Full sun to part shade.  Don't use in full sun with reflected heat without regular irrigation.   Does well in coastal conditions.

Site:  Best in acid, humus rich, moist, yet well drained soil. 

Spreading rate:  Fast.  Spreads by above ground runners that root down and continue to spread. 

Uses:  Use in moderately dry areas in full sun as a very low growing ground cover.  Will take salty air coastal conditions.  Will cascade over walls and is good for slopes.

Fertilizing:  Feed in early spring and again lightly in early fall.  Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one containing a slow release nitrogen source.  Because of it's preference for acidity, using a plant food suitable for Rhododendrons or Azaleas would be fine.  Always follow the manufacturer's label recommendations when making any applications of fertilizer. Be sure to rinse the fertilizer off the foliage.

Watering:  Regular summer water should be provided the first couple of years to ensure good plant establishment and to promote maximum growth.  Although Wild Strawberry can take dry conditions once established, it flourishes with a couple deep waterings during the driest months of late summer. 

Pruning:  Trimming close to the ground in winter brings out nice fresh leaves in spring.  Prune as you wish to control height and shape.

Foot traffic:  Will tolerate foot traffic.

Hardiness:  -40° to -30° F.