Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia Fragarioides)

Barren Strawberry

Features and Characteristics

Waldsteinia fragarioides, commonly called barren strawberry, is an ornamental, strawberry-like plant grown primarily as a ground cover. Although native to eastern North America, it is rare in Missouri where it is only known to occur on wooded slopes and ledges in several counties in the Ozarks. It is a mat-forming plant (to 6″ tall) which spreads by runner-like rhizomes creeping just below the soil surface. Features 5-petaled yellow flowers (3/4″ diameter) which bloom singly or in clusters in spring and trifoliate leaves with wedge-shaped leaflets (each 1-2″ long). Flowers and leaves appear on separate stalks. Foliage is evergreen, but tends to bronze up in cold winter climates like St. Louis.

Genus name honors Count Franz Adam von Waldstein-Wartenberg (1759-182- , Austrian botanist and writer.

Specific epithet means resembling strawberry (Fragaria).

Fruits are not berries, but are single-seeded achenes which are inedible, hence the common name of barren strawberry.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils. Prefers humusy, slightly acidic soils. Plants are generally intolerant of the heat and humidity of the deep South, and do best in northern climates with cool summers.

Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia Fragarioides) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 7
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Slugs are occasional visitors.

Uses

Best as a ground cover for small areas of the border, rock garden, native plant garden, woodland garden or naturalized area. Can also be used as an edging plant. Good substitute for grass in transitional areas.

Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia Fragarioides) Details

Common name	Barren Strawberry
Botanical name	Waldsteinia Fragarioides
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Rosaceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Yellow
Flowering period	April - May
Height	0.25 To 0.50 Feet
Width	0.50 To 1 Ft.