Strawberry Fragaria × ananassa 'Elsanta' (F)
ABOUT
Fragaria × ananassa 'Elsanta', commonly known as the 'Elsanta' strawberry, boasts a lush green appearance with characteristic features that embody its role as a popular fruit-bearing cultivar. This plant produces glossy, medium to dark green leaves that are compound, with each leaf typically consisting of three smaller leaflets. The leaflets have toothed edges which give the foliage a slightly serrated look, adding to the visual texture of the plant. In the flowering season, the 'Elsanta' strawberry adorns itself with showy white flowers. The petals are arranged in a circular fashion around a central yellow hub, which consists of numerous small, pollen-carrying structures. These attractive blooms not only contribute to the aesthetic of the plant but also herald the coming of the fruit. As for the fruit, the strawberries are the main highlight. They present as plump and bright red when ripe, often having a glossy sheen that makes them look mouthwateringly appealing. The skin is dotted with numerous small seeds that add a fine textural contrast to the surface. Attached to the top of the strawberries are the green leaf-like structures known as sepals, which provide a fresh visual counterpoint to the red fruit. Overall, the 'Elsanta' strawberry plant is a beautiful addition to gardens and agricultural fields, valued both for its appetizing fruit and its pleasing appearance throughout the growing season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Elsanta Strawberry, Garden Strawberry
Common names
Fragaria × ananassa 'Elsanta' (F).
ToxicityTo humans
Strawberry 'Elsanta' is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Strawberries are widely consumed and are not known to cause poisoning if eaten. However, some individuals may have allergic reactions to strawberries, which can include symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. In very rare cases, a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur, which requires immediate medical attention.
To pets
Strawberry 'Elsanta' is also generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Pets can usually eat strawberries in moderation without ill effects. However, as with humans, some pets may experience an allergic reaction, which could include symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is always best to introduce any new food to a pet's diet in small amounts and to consult with a veterinarian if any adverse reactions are observed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
8 inches (20 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrids
Benefits
General Benefits- Nutritional Value: Strawberries are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, as well as dietary fiber, manganese, and antioxidants.
- Edible Fruit: Strawberries provide sweet, juicy fruit that can be eaten fresh, added to dishes, or used in preserves and desserts.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its attractive white flowers and lush green foliage, strawberries add beauty to gardens and edible landscapes.
- Garden Ecosystem: Strawberry plants can attract beneficial insects and pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Compact Growth: Suitable for small spaces, containers, and vertical gardens due to its compact and spreading habit.
- Ease of Propagation: Strawberries readily produce runners that can be used to start new plants, facilitating easy propagation.
- Seasonal Variety: They offer early summer fruit, which can be an excellent addition to seasonally varying home gardens.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant Activity: Strawberries, including Fragaria × ananassa 'Elsanta', are known to have antioxidant properties due to their high content of vitamin C and polyphenols, which may help in reducing oxidative stress in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: The polyphenols in strawberries also contribute to anti-inflammatory effects, which might be beneficial for reducing inflammation in diseases such as arthritis.
- Cardiovascular Health: Strawberries have been suggested to aid cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles and reducing oxidative damage and inflammation, which are risk factors for heart disease.
- Glycemic Control: Strawberries might assist in controlling blood sugar levels, potentially being beneficial for individuals with diabetes, due to their fiber content and low glycemic index.
- Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in strawberries may play a role in cancer prevention by neutralizing free radicals that can lead to cancer.
- Digestive Health: The dietary fiber found in strawberries can help maintain a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements.
- Skin Health: Vitamin C in strawberries is essential for the production of collagen, which can aid in skin health by improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of aging.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural fabric dyes: The leaves and fruits of the strawberry plant can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, resulting in shades of pink and green.
- Cosmetic use: Strawberry juice is sometimes included in homemade face masks for its purported skin brightening and toning effects.
- Garden aesthetics: Strawberry plants are often planted in garden borders or hanging baskets for their ornate flowers and vibrant fruits which enhance the visual appeal.
- Companion planting: Strawberries can be used in companion planting to benefit other plants in the garden; for example, they may attract pollinators or repel certain pests.
- Photography: The aesthetic appeal of strawberry plants, with their bright red fruits and white flowers, makes them popular subjects for botanical photography.
- Culinary garnish: Aside from being consumed, strawberry leaves and small unripe strawberries are occasionally used as decorative garnishes in high-end cuisine.
- Crafting material: Dried strawberry plants, including the leaves and flowers, can be used in crafting, such as in the creation of natural wreaths or potpourri.
- Educational purposes: Strawberry plants are grown in schools or educational workshops as a way to teach children about plant biology and gardening.
- Scented oils: The aroma from strawberries can be infused into oils that are used for aromatherapy or as a fragrance for lotions and soaps.
- Bird feeding: When allowed to grow naturally, strawberry plants can serve as a food source for birds, who enjoy eating the ripe berries.
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- Fertility and Abundance: As a type of strawberry, 'Elsanta' strawberries symbolize fertility due to their many seeds and the lush, abundant growth they represent.
- Purity and Innocence: The bright red color and sweet taste of strawberries are often associated with purity and innocence, possibly because of their natural and unspoiled appearance.
- Love and Passion: When given as a gift, strawberries can symbolize romantic interest and passion, owing to their heart shape and red color, which is commonly associated with love.
- Perfection and High Value: Due to their desirable taste and appearance, strawberries have historically been regarded as a luxury item, symbolizing perfection and high value.
- Healing and Medicinal Properties: Historically, strawberries have been associated with healing because they were used in herbal medicines, symbolizing good health and recovery.
WaterThe Elsanta strawberry requires consistent moisture, especially during the fruiting season. Water the strawberries with about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, making adjustments for rainfall. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, use a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the base of the plants. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as strawberries do not like to sit in overly wet soil. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase watering frequency to maintain adequate soil moisture.
LightThe Elsanta strawberry thrives in full sunlight, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that offers morning sun, which is less intense, is ideal as it helps dry dew from the leaves and may reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Avoid planting in shaded areas, as inadequate light can lead to poor fruit development and yield.
TemperatureElsanta strawberries prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth. They are capable of surviving temperatures down to about 20°F, but frost can damage flowers and developing fruit. During the growing season, keep the plants protected if temperatures threaten to fall near the freezing point.
PruningPrune Elsanta strawberries to remove any dead or diseased leaves, and to thin out overcrowded plants, which helps increase air circulation and reduce disease pressure. Pruning is also important after fruiting to cut back old leaves to stimulate new growth. The best time to prune is after the strawberries have finished bearing fruit, generally in late summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for strawberry 'Elsanta' is well-draining soil with a mix of peat, sand, and loam, enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. For optimal growth, maintain a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
RepottingStrawberry 'Elsanta' plants should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish soil nutrients and ensure adequate space for growth.
Humidity & MistingStrawberry 'Elsanta' thrives in outdoor conditions with average humidity levels; they do not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, cool temps, ensure proper soil drainage.
Outdoor
In full sun, well-draining soil, water when topsoil is dry.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Fragaria × ananassa 'Elsanta' is the Elsanta strawberry. The life cycle begins with seed germination, triggered by exposure to the right temperature and moisture conditions. From the seed, a small seedling emerges and develops into a mature plant with leaves and a root system, a stage that can be sped up through the planting of runners rather than seeds. The plant then enters a vegetative state, where it grows and produces leafy foliage. Following this, the strawberry plant flowers, attracting pollinators which leads to the development of fruit; Elsanta strawberries are especially appreciated for their large, firm fruits with a sweet flavor. Finally, after fruiting, the plant will either become dormant in colder climates during winter or may continue to produce smaller amounts of fruit in milder conditions until it completes its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagation for the strawberry plant, specifically the 'Elsanta' variety, is through runner division. Strawberries propagate naturally by sending out runners, which are long, horizontal stems that grow outwards from the main plant. As these runners touch the ground, they can develop root nodes at various points along their length. When these nodes come into contact with the soil, they can establish roots and grow into a new, genetically identical plant. To propagate 'Elsanta' strawberries, gardeners simply wait until the runners have developed strong root systems, then cut these runners from the mother plant and transplant them into a well-prepared bed. The best time to do this is in late summer to early fall, giving the new plants sufficient time to establish themselves before the onset of winter. Gardeners typically ensure that the planting area is enriched with organic matter and that the young plants are kept well-watered until they are established.
