Strawberry Hapil Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil' (F)
ABOUT
The 'Hapil' strawberry plant is known for its lush green foliage and attractive berries. The leaves are broad and have a bright green color, with a slightly glossy finish and serrated edges. The plant forms a low, spreading clump that produces runners, allowing it to spread and cover ground over time. During its flowering period, the 'Hapil' strawberry plant showcases dainty white flowers that have a golden center. These blooms eventually give way to the juicy strawberries that the plant is known for. The fruits are large and have a conical shape, tending to taper towards the tip. The berries boast a bright red hue when fully ripe and are known for their delicious sweetness and rich aroma. The surface of the strawberries is dotted with numerous small seeds, which add a slight texture to their otherwise smooth skin. Overall, the 'Hapil' presents itself as a charming and productive plant, prized for its ability to produce an abundance of sweet fruit that is delightful to both the eye and the palate.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Hapil Strawberry, Garden Strawberry
Common names
Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil' (F).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as strawberry, specifically Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil', is not toxic to humans. Strawberries, including this cultivar, are widely consumed around the world and are not known to cause poisoning when eaten. However, in a few cases, individuals may have allergies to strawberries, which can result in symptoms such as itching, hives, swelling, respiratory problems, or anaphylaxis. These reactions are due to an allergic response and not to any inherent toxicity in the strawberries themselves.
To pets
The strawberry plant, specifically Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil', is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. This means that pets can typically consume strawberries in moderation without experiencing poisoning. However, it is important to note that overeating strawberries can cause gastrointestinal upset in some pets, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting. The plant itself is not toxic, but pet owners should be cautious with the amount they feed to their animals and should also be aware of any potential allergies their pet may have.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Fruit: Produces sweet, red strawberries that are popular for fresh consumption, jams, and desserts.
- Ornamental Value: Has attractive green foliage and white flowers that can add aesthetic value to gardens.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Adaptability: 'Hapil' is adaptable to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained, loamy soils.
- Compact Growth: Suitable for small gardens, patios, or balcony containers due to its relatively compact growth habit.
- Easy Propagation: Can be easily propagated through runners, making it easy to expand the garden or share with others.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides seasonal interest with its flowering period in spring and fruit production in early summer.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil' berries are known for their high vitamin C content and antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory: The strawberries may have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of flavonoids and other phytochemicals.
- Cardiovascular support: The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in strawberries might contribute to heart health.
- Skin health: Vitamin C in strawberries is vital for the production of collagen and could potentially support skin health.
- Digestive health: The dietary fiber in strawberries can aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion planting: Strawberry 'Hapil' is often used in companion planting in gardens to attract beneficial insects and pollinators, and to deter pests from other crops.
- Symbolism: In some cultures, strawberries are symbols of purity and are used in ceremonial practices or as decorative motifs.
- Natural dye: The fruit can be used as a natural dye for fabrics or food, providing a pale pink to reddish color.
- Strawberry picking events: Strawberry 'Hapil' can be featured in strawberry picking events or festivals, contributing to agritourism and local economies.
- Art subjects: Due to their visual appeal, strawberries are commonly used as subjects in art and photography, teaching still life composition and color techniques.
- Craft materials: Dried strawberry plants, including the leaves and stems, can be used in crafting, such as for making wreaths or potpourri.
- Flavoring: Strawberry 'Hapil', due to its high quality and taste, can be used to flavor beverages or homemade lip balms and cosmetics.
- Bait for wildlife photography: Strawberries can be used to attract wildlife such as birds or small mammals for photography or observation.
- Educational tool: This variety of strawberry can be used in educational settings to teach students about plant biology, cultivation, and breeding techniques.
- Erosion control: Strawberry plants can be utilized in gardens and on slopes to help control erosion due to their rooting system.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Strawberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Strawberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Admiration: The strawberry, as the most common name for Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil', is traditionally associated with Venus, the goddess of love. Its heart-shaped appearance is symbolic of love and affection.
- Fertility and Abundance: Strawberries are a symbol of fertility due to their many seeds and their lush growth, representing abundance and gratitude.
- Innocence and Purity: Because of their bright red color and fragrant aroma, strawberries can symbolize purity and innocence, evoking the simplicity and sweetness of childhood.
- Perfection and Righteousness: Due to their perfect shape and delicious taste, strawberries are often associated with perfection and the intention to do good.
- Spring and Rebirth: Since strawberries are among the first fruits to ripen in spring, they can symbolize rebirth and the renewal of life.
WaterThe strawberry plant, specifically the 'Hapil' variety, thrives when watered consistently to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plants generously, with approximately 1 inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall. In dry conditions, increase watering to 1.5 inches per week. For potted 'Hapil' strawberries, water until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, ensuring the entire root ball is moistened. During the fruiting period, be especially careful to provide enough water to support fruit development, but always avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
LightStrawberries, such as the 'Hapil', require full sunlight for optimal growth, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for these plants would be in an area that receives morning sun, which is less intense, and is sheltered from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching. Partial shade in the afternoon can be beneficial, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureFor the strawberry plant 'Hapil', the ideal growing temperature ranges from 65°F to 75°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 20°F before risking damage and can handle maximum temperatures up to 85°F, though prolonged heat can stress the plant and affect fruit production. Consistent temperatures within the ideal range promote the best growth and fruiting conditions.
PruningStrawberries, including the 'Hapil' variety, should be pruned to remove dead or diseased leaves and to thin out crowded beds, which promotes better air circulation and reduces disease risk. Prune after harvesting by thinning out old and less productive crowns; typically 1 to 3 of the oldest crowns per plant. The best time to prune is in late summer or early fall which allows for healthy regrowth the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilStrawberry 'Hapil' prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 to 6.8. A good soil mix is composed of one-third peat moss, one-third sand, and one-third garden soil, allowing for proper root aeration and moisture retention. Regular organic amendment with compost can enhance soil structure and fertility, beneficial for fruit production.
RepottingStrawberry 'Hapil' plants typically do not require frequent repotting; they are perennial and can be left in the same pot or garden bed for several years. However, if they are grown in containers, repotting every 2 to 3 years may be beneficial to refresh the soil and address any issues with root crowding.
Humidity & MistingStrawberry 'Hapil' grows best in moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor environments. Aim for around 40-60% relative humidity if possible, as high humidity can promote fungal diseases while low humidity might stress the plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Strawberries 'Hapil' in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant Strawberries 'Hapil' in full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Strawberry 'Hapil' begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in well-draining soil after exposure to spring warmth and sunlight. The seedlings develop into young plants with characteristic trifoliate leaves and establish a root system. As they mature, they enter a vegetative state where they focus on developing runners (stolons), which spread out and can create new daughter plants. When environmental conditions are favorable, typically in late spring to early summer, the plants flower, with the flowers being pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of fleshy red fruits containing seeds on their surfaces. After fruiting, the plant continues to produce runners and can enter a rest period during cooler months. The life cycle can be repeated annually, with the plant yielding fruit typically in the second year and lasting for several years if cared for properly.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Propogation: The Fragaria × ananassa 'Hapil', commonly known as the Hapil strawberry, is commonly propagated through the use of runners, which are long shoots that extend out from the main plant. During the late summer months, these runners develop small plantlets at their tips. When these plantlets come into contact with the soil, they can take root and grow into new strawberry plants. This method is advantageous as it preserves the genetic makeup of the parent plant and allows for the easy establishment of new plants. Gardeners often encourage the rooting of plantlets by pegging them down into the soil, ensuring contact and thereby promoting root formation. Once rooted, the new plants can be severed from the parent and transplanted to their permanent location, usually in the early fall. This ensures that by the next growing season, the new plants are well-established and ready to produce fruit.
