Contents
Description
Fragaria Nilgerrensis, commonly known as the wild strawberry of the Nilgiri Hills, is a species of strawberry found in the high-altitude regions of the Western Ghats in South India. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is a close relative of the cultivated strawberry, Fragaria x ananassa.The Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant is a low-growing perennial herb that spreads through stolons or runners. It produces small white flowers and red fruits that are edible and have a sweet taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Fragaria |
| Species | Nilgerrensis |
Appearance
The Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant has trifoliate leaves that are green in color and serrated at the edges. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and are attached to long petioles. The plant grows up to 15 cm in height and spreads through runners that produce new plants.The flowers of the Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant are small and white in color, and they bloom in spring and summer. The fruits are red in color and are small, measuring around 1 cm in diameter. They have a sweet taste and are edible.
Care Guide
The Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it. The plant requires full sunlight for optimal growth.Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant is native to the Nilgiri Hills in South India, where it grows in high-altitude regions above 1500 meters. It prefers cool temperatures and grows well in humid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant edible?
A: Yes, the red fruits of the Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant are edible and have a sweet taste.
Q: Can the Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant be grown as a houseplant?
A: The Fragaria Nilgerrensis plant is not an ideal houseplant as it requires full sunlight and cool temperatures to thrive.
Q: What is the difference between Fragaria Nilgerrensis and Fragaria x ananassa?
A: Fragaria Nilgerrensis is a wild strawberry species found in South India, while Fragaria x ananassa is a cultivated strawberry variety that is widely grown around the world.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Fragaria Nilgerrensis?
A: Fragaria Nilgerrensis is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Fragaria x ananassa
- Fragaria vesca
- Fragaria chiloensis
References
- “Fragaria Nilgerrensis – Wild Strawberry of Nilgiris.” Nature Bring. https://naturebring.com/fragaria-nilgerrensis-wild-strawberry-nilgiris/
- “Fragaria Nilgerrensis.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:295456-1
- “Growing strawberries in pots.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/strawberry/growing-strawberries-in-pots.htm
