Fragaria vesca

Fragaria vesca

Plant Family

Rosaceae

Botanical Description

Wild Strawberry is a low-growing perennial with trifoliate toothed leaves, small white five-petaled flowers, and small intensely flavored red fruits. Spreads by runners.

Cautions

Generally very safe. Rare allergic reactions in people sensitive to Rosaceae family.

Habitat

Woodland edges, clearings, meadows, banks.

Harvest Instructions

Leaves harvested before flowering. Fruits when ripe. Roots in autumn.

Geographic Distribution

Native to Europe and northern Asia. Naturalized in North America.

Growth Conditions

Partial shade to full sun. Moist, humus-rich soil. Tolerates various conditions.

Plant Size

5-30 cm

Effects on the Body

Astringent for digestive complaints, mild diuretic, highly nutritious. Traditionally used for gum health and digestive upsets.

Active Constituents

Vitamin C, flavonoids, tannins, ellagic acid, organic acids, minerals.

Safety Information

Dosage

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons dried leaves in hot water. Fruit eaten fresh or in preparations.

Culinary Use

Fruits eaten fresh or in desserts. More aromatic than cultivated strawberries. Leaves make pleasant tea.

Folklore & Historical Use

Associated with the Virgin Mary in Christian symbolism. Considered a symbol of righteousness.

Scientific Research

Limited clinical research on the whole plant. Fruit well-documented for antioxidant content (vitamin C, ellagic acid, anthocyanins). Leaf preparations traditionally used for diarrhea due to tannin content.