Description

FRAISES DES BOIS (Fragaria vesca), translated "Wild Strawberries" is also referred to as an Alpine Strawberry. A remarkable treasure of a fruit that has little relationship in growing habits or taste to its larger cousins. These small but intensely fragrant and sweet fruits cast few runners, making them perfect choices to grow in window boxes and rock gardens. Day-neutral, they grow about 10" high and spread about 8". Beloved in Europe, where for centuries they were enjoyed by royalty, but little known in America and rarely found in markets because they should only be picked when absolutely ripe - and then they are just too fragile to ship. Just a few of these gems on your morning cereal will give you a new outlook on life! Or served alone with clotted cream as the Victorians enjoyed them! With their pretty white flowers and bright red cone-shaped berries they make a beautiful decorative as well. You can use them to edge your herb bed. Very likely will fruit the first year. Easy to save seed and multiply your bed for subsequent seasons. One plant in a 3" pot shipping in Spring 2021. Perennial.

MEDICINAL: Not typically associated in the modern mind with medicinal use, Alpine Strawberry was historically commonly used in many different capacities. All parts of the plant were used. The root for diarrhea. The stalks for wounds. The leaves as astringents. Teas made from the leaves are wonderful for digestion (and diarrhea) and to stimulate the appetite, and recent study indicates a high element of ellagic acid, a known cancer preventative. The crushed fruit is very soothing to the skin and has antibacterial properties, AND interestingly can be applied to teeth (with baking soda) or skin to "bleach it white." The berries are an excellent source of Vitamin C and recent studies show them to be high in antioxidants, making them one to add to your cancer protection diet.

GROWING TIPS: Hold your seedling in its pot until last frost. Then allow your seedling to "harden off" by increasing exposure a little at a time for at least a week before transferring to its permanent outdoor container or garden location.

SEED SAVING: Sooooo easy! Just lay very ripe berries on a small tray or plate in your refrigerator until they dry completely. Then rub the seeds off the berries! Store in your freezer until you are ready to plant and they will be cold-stratified par excellence!