Indian Strawberry Duchesnea indica
ABOUT
The plant known as Indian strawberry or mock strawberry has a distinctive appearance that is often reminiscent of the common strawberry, though it does not share its flavor. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are grouped in threes, and have toothed edges. They are a lush green color and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers of this plant are small with five petals, typically presenting a bright yellow hue that stands out against the green foliage. The fruit of Indian strawberry resembles that of the true strawberry but is typically smaller and rounder. It is initially green, turning to a red hue as it matures. However, these fruits lack the sweetness and juiciness for which common strawberries are known; instead, they have a bland taste and are often considered inedible. The plant spreads across the ground with runners that root at nodes, similar to strawberry plants, giving it a sprawling habit that covers the ground with its low-growing foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Indian Strawberry, Mock Strawberry, False Strawberry, Yellow-flowered Strawberry, Indian Mock Strawberry.
Common names
Fragaria indica, Potentilla indica, Duchesnea fragarioides, Potentilla duchesnea.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Indian strawberry or mock strawberry (Duchesnea indica) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from eating the fruit or any other part of this plant. However, as with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it is advisable to be cautious when trying any new plant for the first time.
To pets
Indian strawberry or mock strawberry (Duchesnea indica) is generally considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. No significant toxic effects have been reported from the ingestion of this plant by pets. However, pets may have individual sensitivities or allergies, so it is still a good idea to monitor for any sign of adverse reaction if they consume this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot 4 inches (40 cm)
Plant type
Creeper
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Fruit: The fruit of Duchesnea indica, also known as mock strawberry, can be eaten fresh or used to make jams and desserts.
- Ground Cover: The plant is often used as an ornamental ground cover due to its ability to spread quickly and cover bare spots in gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Mock strawberry is known for being a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established.
- Drought Tolerant: It is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in arid regions.
- Attractive Flowers: Mock strawberry produces small yellow flowers that add visual interest to the garden landscape.
- Food for Wildlife: The berries and flowers can provide a food source for birds and small mammals.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Indian strawberry (Duchesnea indica) is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant: It is suggested that the plant contains compounds with antioxidant activity, which helps in protecting the body from oxidative stress and free radicals.
- Diuretic: Indian strawberry has been traditionally used as a diuretic to help promote the elimination of fluids from the body.
- Astringent: The plant is also known for its astringent properties, which can help tighten and tone the skin and tissues.
- Antibacterial: Some studies indicate that Indian strawberry may have antibacterial properties that might be effective against certain bacteria.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Duchesnea indica, commonly known as mock strawberry, can be used as a ground cover in gardens due to its ability to spread quickly and create a dense mat of foliage, which suppresses weed growth.
- The fruits of mock strawberry are edible, though not particularly flavorful, and can be used as a decorative element in pastries and salads for their strawberry-like appearance.
- The plant is sometimes used in the creation of living green mulches in orchards and agricultural fields, helping to maintain soil moisture and reduce soil erosion.
- Farmers in some regions plant mock strawberry between crop rows as a living pathway that withstands foot traffic and helps minimize soil compaction.
- The leaves of the mock strawberry can be used as a natural green dye for textiles and crafts, though they do not produce a particularly strong color.
- In landscaping, mock strawberry can be utilized for controlling erosion on slopes and embankments thanks to its sturdy root system.
- Because of its attractiveness and low maintenance, mock strawberry is used in container gardening, hanging baskets, and window boxes for visual appeal.
- Mock strawberry can serve as a food source for some species of wildlife, such as birds and small mammals, offering ecological benefits in naturalized garden settings.
- The plant's dense growth habit can also be beneficial for providing protective cover and nesting opportunities for ground-nesting insects and small animals.
- Children sometimes use the fruit of mock strawberry to create natural jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets, stringing the fruits together by their stems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Indian strawberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Indian strawberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Deception: Indian Strawberry, despite its appearance, does not bear fruit with the same taste or culinary value as true strawberries, thereby symbolizing appearances being deceptive.
- Survival: As a hardy groundcover, Indian Strawberry reflects the ability to thrive in various conditions, signifying adaptability and resilience.
- Growth: The rapid spread of Indian Strawberry denotes expansion and the idea of growth, both physically and metaphorically.
- Fertility: With its prolific production of fruit, Indian Strawberry suggests fertility and abundance.
WaterFor the Indian strawberry, regular watering is necessary to maintain moist soil, especially during dry spells. Typically, watering once a week with approximately 1 inch of water is sufficient, but in hotter, drier conditions, you may need to water twice a week. Ensure water penetrates the soil to a depth of at least an inch by checking with your finger or a soil probe. During the winter months or in cooler climates, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant's growth slows down. Over-watering should be avoided to prevent root rot; always allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
LightIndian strawberry thrives in partial shade to full sun. The best spot for this plant allows it to receive morning sunlight and partial shade during the intense heat of the afternoon. While the plant is quite adaptable and can grow in various lighting conditions, too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers, whereas too much direct sun may stress the plant and scorch the leaves.
TemperatureIndian strawberries prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 80°F and can survive minimum temperatures down to 20°F. They are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. Protecting the plant from extreme cold and frost can ensure its survival, while in hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can prevent overheating.
PruningPrune Indian strawberries to remove dead or diseased foliage and to promote bushier growth. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. They don't require heavy pruning—just a light trim to shape the plant and encourage fresh growth. Pruning also helps to rejuvenate older plants that may be becoming woody or less productive.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Indian Strawberry prefers moist, well-draining soil with a mix of peat, loam, and sand to retain some moisture while preventing water-logging. Maintain a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingIndian Strawberry, being a vigorous spreader, may not require frequent repotting. It should be repotted or divided every 2-3 years to manage growth and refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingIndian Strawberry thrives in average to high humidity levels, as it prefers a moist environment, but it's adaptable to a range of indoor humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Part shade to full sun; moist soil; protect from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleIndian strawberry (Duchesnea indica) initiates its life cycle through seed germination, typically occurring in early spring when soil temperatures warm up. The germinated seeds develop into seedlings, characterized by the sprouting of initial leaves. After the establishment of a robust root system, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing the distinctive trifoliate leaves. Indian strawberry plants mature rapidly, and during their reproductive stage, they produce small yellow flowers, which are then pollinated by insects or self-pollinated. Following pollination, the flowers develop into red, strawberry-like fruit containing the seeds for the next generation. This perennial plant can also propagate vegetatively through runners, which stretch out, touch the ground, and root at nodes to create new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The Indian Strawberry, or Duchesnea indica, is a plant commonly propagated by runner division. The most popular method of propagation is typically done in the early spring or fall. During this time, the plant produces runners, which are stolons that grow outward from the base of the original plant. These runners can be pinned down into the soil where they will develop roots at the nodes, a process that can be assisted by burying a small section of the runner under the soil. Once the new plants have established a good root system, which usually takes a few weeks, they can be severed from the parent plant and transplanted if desired. This method capitalizes on the plant's natural inclination to spread and requires minimal intervention from the gardener.
