One of the best evergreen ground covers for mostly shaded gardens. Plants form dense mats of 2- to 3-inch high strawberry-like leaves. Waxy, yellow, 5-petaled flowers add color in April and June.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Barren Strawberry
Waldsteinia fragarioides
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Cliff, Forest
Season of Interest: Early (Feb - Apr), Mid (May - June)
Main Color: Yellow
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Mervin Wallace
Sun Exposure
Medium Sun/Average Shade, Shade
Soil
Moisture
Moderate
Nature Attracting
Wildlife Benefit
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
2 to
3
inches
Spread:
8 to
10
inches
Size
Height: 2 to
3
inches
Spread: 8 to
10
inches
Size
Height: 2 to
3
inches
Spread: 8 to
10
inches
Typical Landscape Use
As a ground cover, as a living mulch between larger shade species, and edges of beds.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grows best in organic, rich soil. Can tolerate dry periods, but does best in average moisture. Keep tree leaves off the plants in the winter.
Special Features
Evergreen
Special Usage
Ground Cover, Salt Tolerant
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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What’s the Next Step?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.