Fragaria chiloensis aka Beach Strawberry

Taxonomy ID: 4049

Fragaria chiloensis, also known as the beach strawberry, Chilean strawberry, or coastal strawberry, is a low-growing, spreading perennial plant native to the Pacific Ocean coasts of North and South America. This species played a crucial role in the hybridization process that led to the creation of the modern garden strawberry. It features glossy dark green leaves held on pinkish-red leaf stalks, forming a dense ground cover. The plant produces large white flowers in April to May, followed by red fruits with a paler center that ripen from June to July. Fragaria chiloensis is dioecious, requiring both male and female plants for seed production, and is primarily pollinated by insects. It thrives in well-drained soil with a preference for moist conditions and can tolerate light woodland or no shade. While it can withstand strong winds, it is not adapted to maritime exposure.

Common names

Beach Strawberry, Chilean Strawberry, Chiloe Strawberry, Pine Strawberry

More information about Beach Strawberry

How difficult is it to take care of Beach Strawberry

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Beach Strawberry due to its easy-going nature.

What is the region of origin of Beach Strawberry

Beach Strawberry’s native range is Temperate Northern Hemisphere and Southern South America.

What are the water needs for Beach Strawberry

Beach Strawberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Beach Strawberry

Beach Strawberry loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Beach Strawberry

To ensure optimal growth, the Beach Strawberry prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

What's the right humidity for Beach Strawberry

The Beach Strawberry does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.

How to fertilize Beach Strawberry

Once the Beach Strawberry has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Is Beach Strawberry toxic to humans/pets?

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

More info:
Wikipedia