Contents
Description
Fragaria Chiloensis, commonly known as the Beach Strawberry or the Coastal Strawberry, is a species of wild strawberry native to North and South America. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is closely related to the common garden strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa). The Beach Strawberry is a low-growing perennial plant that produces small, sweet, and flavorful fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Embryophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Fragaria |
Appearance
The Beach Strawberry has a trailing growth habit with a height of only a few inches. It produces runners that spread out and form new plants. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets that are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. The flowers are white or pinkish and have five petals. The fruits are small and conical, measuring about an inch in diameter, and are bright red when ripe.
Care Guide
Water: The Beach Strawberry prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods.Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can result in excessive foliage growth and reduced fruit production.Soil: The Beach Strawberry prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It also prefers soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The Beach Strawberry prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Beach Strawberry is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Beach Strawberry is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including slugs, snails, aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing good cultural care, such as proper watering and fertilization, and promptly remove any infected plant parts.
Habitat
The Beach Strawberry is a common plant along the Pacific coast of North and South America, from Alaska to Chile. It is often found in sandy or rocky coastal habitats, including beaches, dunes, and cliffs. It is also found in open forests, meadows, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Beach Strawberry be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Beach Strawberry can be grown in containers as long as the container is deep enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: When is the best time to harvest Beach Strawberries?
A: Beach Strawberries are typically harvested in June and July when the fruits are bright red and fully ripe.Q: Are Beach Strawberries self-pollinating?
A: No, Beach Strawberries require cross-pollination to produce fruit. Planting multiple plants will increase the chances of successful pollination.Q: How often should I fertilize my Beach Strawberry plant?
A: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer, and avoid over-fertilization which can result in excessive foliage growth and reduced fruit production.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Beach Strawberry:
- Fragaria x ananassa (Garden Strawberry)
- Fragaria vesca (Woodland Strawberry)
- Fragaria virginiana (Virginia Strawberry)
- Fragaria moschata (Musk Strawberry)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/strawberry/beach-strawberry-care.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/fragch/all.html
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=FRCH
