The California Woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca bracteata) is a native wild strawberry found throughout western North America. This hardy, low-growing perennial is known for its sweet miniature fruits, white five-petaled blossoms, and lush green foliage that spreads naturally to create a soft groundcover.
Perfect for native plant gardens, pollinator habitats, or edible landscaping, this species is both ornamental and productive. The small red berries are sweet, aromatic, and edible, enjoyed by humans, birds, and wildlife alike.
Because of its shade tolerance and adaptability, the California Woodland Strawberry thrives in forests, garden beds, and even patio containers — making it a versatile addition to any garden.
Features
- 🍓 Sweet Wild Berries: Small, flavorful fruits with a rich wild-strawberry aroma.
- 🌿 Native North American Variety: Adapted for woodland and partial-shade habitats.
- 🌼 Attractive Flowers: White blooms that attract bees and pollinators.
- 🪴 Excellent Groundcover: Spreads gently via runners to form a living mat.
- ❄️ Cold Hardy Perennial: Survives frost and regenerates yearly.
- 🌎 Non-GMO & Open-Pollinated: Naturally grown and seed-sourced.
Specifications
- Common Name: California Woodland Strawberry / Native Wild Strawberry
- Scientific Name: Fragaria vesca bracteata
- Plant Type: Perennial herbaceous groundcover
- USDA Zones: 4 – 9
- Mature Height: 4 – 8 inches (10 – 20 cm)
- Spread: 12 – 24 inches (30 – 60 cm)
- Light Requirements: Partial shade to full sun
- Soil Type: Moist, rich, well-drained soil
- Watering: Regular, moderate moisture preferred
- Foliage: Bright green trifoliate leaves
- Flower Color: White
- Fruit Color: Red
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
- Growth Habit: Low, spreading via runners
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Chill (cold stratify) seeds for 3–4 weeks in moist sand or peat before planting.
- Sowing Depth: Surface-sow or lightly cover with 1/8 inch of fine soil.
- Germination Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C).
- Germination Time: 2–4 weeks after stratification.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings when 2–3 inches tall; space 8–12 inches apart.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Light: Prefers partial shade; tolerates full sun with adequate water.
Care Tips
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with organic compost.
- Allow runners to spread for natural groundcover, or trim to control size.
- Excellent for understory planting beneath trees or shrubs.
