Barren Strawberry
Waldsteinia fragarioides
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
4 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Waldsteinia fragarioides, commonly known as barren strawberry, is a low-growing, stoloniferous perennial with dense, semi-evergreen foliage and small, yellow, strawberry-like flowers that bloom in spring. This species is valued for its ground-covering habit and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland garden settings with minimal maintenance.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for propagation.
- Apply a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during active growth.
- Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed.
Pro Tip
Plant in shaded areas with well-draining, moist soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds
- Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Prune lightly after flowering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing which can cause legginess
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Barren Strawberry questions
What zones can Barren Strawberry grow in?
Barren Strawberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Barren Strawberry deer resistant?
Yes — Barren Strawberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Barren Strawberry bloom?
Barren Strawberry typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Barren Strawberry need full sun?
Barren Strawberry does best in part shade.
Is Barren Strawberry drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Barren Strawberry handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Barren Strawberry with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
