Strawberry Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician' (F)
ABOUT
The Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', more commonly known as the strawberry plant, is a perennial plant that showcases a rich tapestry of green foliage, white flowers, and succulent red fruits. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning each leaf is composed of three smaller leaflets. They have a toothed or serrated edge and a slightly glossy surface, providing a lush backdrop for the other features of the plant. Throughout the blooming season, the strawberry plant produces delicate white flowers. Each flower has five petals that radiate from the center, surrounding a cluster of yellow stamens, which are the pollen-producing parts of the flower. These blooms are not only attractive, but they are also a signal that fruit will soon develop. Following the flowering stage, the plant bears its most prized feature: the strawberries. These fruits start green and gradually ripen to a deep, vibrant red. Strawberries have a plump, heart-shaped appearance with small, yellowish seeds dotting their skin. The contrast between the red of the ripe fruit and the green of the leaves makes for an eye-catching display. The stems of the strawberry plant are slender and can sprawl across the ground. They often form runners, which can root themselves to create new plants, aiding in the spread of the strawberry patch. The combination of the running stems, lush leaves, charming flowers, and delicious fruits make the strawberry plant a favorite for gardens and culinary enthusiasts alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Garden Strawberry, Pineberry
Common names
Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician' (F).
ToxicityTo humans
The Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', commonly known as the strawberry, is not toxic to humans. In fact, strawberries are widely consumed for their sweet taste and nutritional benefits. However, some individuals may have an allergy to strawberries which can result in symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
To pets
The strawberry, Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', is not considered toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Strawberries can even be a healthy treat in moderation, providing vitamins and fiber. However, the leaves and stems could cause slight gastrointestinal irritation if consumed in large quantities, and the sweet fruit may not be suitable for pets with certain health conditions, such as diabetes. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet's diet.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot [0.3 meters]
Spread
1.5 feet [0.45 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Economic Value: The Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician' (commonly known as garden strawberry) is widely cultivated for its fruit, which is a valuable agricultural commodity used in a variety of food products.
- Nutritional Content: Garden strawberries are a rich source of vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, folic acid, manganese, and potassium, as well as various antioxidants and phytochemicals.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its attractive green foliage, white flowers, and red fruits, the garden strawberry adds beauty to gardens and can be used in landscaping.
- Culinary Uses: The fruits are commonly used in a wide range of culinary dishes, including jams, desserts, smoothies, and salads, providing versatility in the kitchen.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Garden strawberries can offer a food source for wildlife like birds and insects, which can help maintain ecological balance.
- Home Gardening: Easily grown in containers and garden beds, garden strawberries are suitable for home gardeners, providing fresh fruit and the satisfaction of home gardening.
- Community Engagement: Strawberry picking can be a community-driven activity that brings people together, such as at U-pick farms.
- Educational Opportunities: Growing garden strawberries can be used as an educational tool to teach children and adults about plant biology, agriculture, and healthy eating.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: The fruit of Fragaria × ananassa, commonly known as strawberry, contains vitamins C and E, and flavonoids that have antioxidant properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: Strawberries have compounds like quercetin and kaempferol that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects.
- Cardiovascular health: Regular consumption of strawberries may help maintain a healthy heart by reducing the risk of hypertension and improving the lipid profile due to high levels of anthocyanins.
- Blood sugar regulation: Strawberries have a low glycemic index and contain fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Cancer prevention: Certain compounds in strawberries, like ellagic acid, have been studied for their potential to inhibit cancer cell growth.
- Neuroprotective Effects: Flavonoids present in strawberries may provide neuroprotective benefits and support cognitive function.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Strawberry plants, such as the Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a pink to pale red hue depending on concentration and fabric type.
- The leaves of strawberry plants can be dried and used to create fragrant potpourris or infused into oils for a sweet, berry scent in homemade aromatherapies.
- Strong strawberry leaf tea can serve as a mild, natural cleaning agent for surfaces in the home, adding a fresh fragrance.
- Crushed strawberries can be mixed into a paste with baking soda to create a natural, biodegradable teeth whitener.
- Strawberry juice can be used as an acidulant in culinary applications, adding a fruity tang to marinades or dressings.
- The ripe fruit mashed and mixed with coarse sugar can be used as a natural exfoliating scrub for the skin.
- Leftover strawberry plant stems can be woven into small decorative baskets or artwork by craft enthusiasts.
- Growing strawberry plants in a home garden can provide a habitat and food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- The leaves and unripe berries can be crushed and used to create fish bait due to their strong, attractive aroma.
- The hollowed-out fruit of a strawberry can be used as a container to serve bite-sized appetizers or desserts at gatherings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Strawberry plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Strawberry plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and affection - Strawberries have long been associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love, due to their heart shape and red color.
- Fertility and abundance - The numerous seeds on the strawberry's surface symbolize potential and the fruit's rich, sweet flavor signifies life's richness.
- Innocence and purity - Strawberries are often tied to purity and simplicity because of their natural, unblemished appearance when found in the wild.
- Good fortune - In some cultures, strawberries are given as gifts to bring about good fortune and prosperity.
WaterStrawberry plants, including the Delician variety, should be watered deeply to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, making sure to avoid wetting the foliage. The frequency of watering depends on the weather and soil conditions, but generally, they require around 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. During hot or dry weather, watering may be necessary every two to three days, while in cooler, wetter conditions, once a week might suffice. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots and minimize water waste. It's best to water in the morning to allow any excess moisture on the plant to evaporate throughout the day.
LightStrawberries thrive in full sunlight, meaning they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician' is in an area where they can soak up morning sun and are protected from the intense late afternoon heat, if possible. However, they can still produce fruit in partial shade, though the yield may be reduced.
TemperatureFragaria × ananassa 'Delician' performs well in a wide range of temperatures but grows best when daytime temperatures are around 65 to 75°F. They can survive temperatures as low as 20°F, but frost can damage the flowers and fruit, and as high as 85°F, although higher temperatures might reduce fruit production. To maximize fruiting potential, ensure the plants are protected from extreme temperatures and frost by using mulch or frost cloths when necessary.
PruningPruning strawberry plants by removing dead leaves and spent flowers can stimulate new growth and fruit production. The best time to prune is after harvesting, as this prepares the plants for the next growing season. For the Delician variety, also remove any runners if you want to limit the spread of the plant and focus the plant's energy on fruit production. Pruning should be done annually or when the plant appears overcrowded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', commonly known as the strawberry plant, should be rich in organic matter, well-draining, and slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A blend of one-third peat, one-third sand, and one-third loamy garden soil often results in a suitable growing medium for strawberries.
RepottingStrawberry plants like Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician' are typically not repotted as they are perennial and are often replanted annually through runners. However, if grown in containers, they should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish the soil and provide space for growth.
Humidity & MistingStrawberry plants, including Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', prefer moderate humidity levels between 70-85%. They thrive in an environment that is not too dry; thus, ensuring adequate humidity is particularly important when grown in controlled indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, keep soil moist, and maintain cool temps.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, water regularly, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleStrawberry 'Delician' begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination, develops into a seedling with its first true leaves. The plant then enters a vegetative growth phase, where it produces a rosette of leaves and establishes a root system. As it matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing white flowers that are pollinated by insects, leading to the development of the familiar red strawberries, the reproductive fruit of the plant. Once fruits are formed and seeds are developed, they can be dispersed to give rise to new plants. In temperate climates, strawberries may enter a dormancy period during cold winters, slowing down or ceasing growth. With the return of favorable conditions, the plant resumes growth, completing its cycle, and is capable of producing fruit for several years before productivity declines and it must be replaced.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating strawberry plants, including the Fragaria × ananassa 'Delician', is through runner division. Strawberry plants produce long, leafless stalks called runners or stolons that grow outward from the main plant. As the runners stretch out, they develop small nodes at various points, and it is at these nodes that new plantlets start to form. When these plantlets touch the ground, they can take root and grow into new strawberry plants. To propagate using runners, gardeners should wait until these plantlets have developed a few leaves and roots before cutting them from the mother plant. It’s ideal to do this in the late summer or early fall, giving the new plants enough time to establish themselves before the onset of winter. Once separated, the new plantlets can be transplanted to a desired location, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth.
