Fragaria virginiana (Scarlet Strawberry) is a low-growing, spreading perennial forming rosettes of tri-foliate, coarsely-toothed, bright green leaves. In late spring to early summer, it bears a profusion of small, 5-petaled white flowers adorned with yellow centers for 3-4 weeks. They are followed by a crop of tiny, bright red berries, 0.5 in. (1 cm), rich with a sweet-tart flavor. Small seeds are scattered across the surface of these fruits in sunken pits. Scarlet Strawberry is a cool-season plant that grows actively during the spring and fall, but it often becomes dormant after setting fruit during the hot summer months. This plant is easy to cultivate, and it will spread to form a loose ground cover in open areas. The foliage is more resistant to foliar disease than most cultivated strawberries.

• Grows up to 4-7 in. tall (10-17 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm). This plant spreads by runners to form large colonies over time.
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Prefers organically rich, sandy loams.
• Great as a ground cover or as a border plant. Excellent on slopes (erosion control) or woodland gardens.
• Strawberries are susceptible to some issues including anthracnose, leaf spots, rots, wilts, powdery mildew, and blights. Insect visitors include spider mites and aphids. Leaf scorch may occur in hot summer climates.
• Propagation: remove and transplant runners.
• Native to North America