Fragaria vesca (F) (alpine strawberry) — Trailing

Overview

Fragaria vesca (F) is a trailing herbaceous perennial in the genus Fragaria, part of the Rosaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Fragaria vesca (F) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, edible fruit and ground cover.

About

Fragaria vesca is a trailing, semi‑evergreen herbaceous perennial in the Rosaceae that produces edible fruit. It grows 0.1–0.5 metres high and spreads 0.5–1 metre, reaching mature size in 1–2 years. Flowers appear from May to July and set the small, fresh fruits prized for eating.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Fragaria vesca

About the genus

Fragaria is a genus of flowering plants in the rose family, Rosaceae, commonly known as strawberries for their edible fruits. There are more than 20 described species and many hybrids and cultivars.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Fragaria

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Fragaria vesca (F) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial, Fruit Edible
Habit: Trailing
Foliage: Semi evergreen
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: 0.5-1 metres
Time to full height: 1-2 years
Suggested uses: Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Edible fruit, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Fragaria vesca (F)

Propagation: Remove and transplant runners
Pest resistance: Aphids, slugs and snails, Glasshouse red spider mite, Vine weevil
Disease resistance: Strawberry viruses, Root rot, Grey moulds

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Fragaria vesca (F)?

Fragaria vesca (F) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Fragaria vesca (F) need?

Fragaria vesca (F) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Fragaria vesca (F) grow?

Fragaria vesca (F) reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.

Is Fragaria vesca (F) hardy in the UK?

Fragaria vesca (F) has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Fragaria vesca (F)?

Remove and transplant runners.

More in the Fragaria genus

Browse all Fragaria →