Pineberry Fragaria × ananassa Snow White = 'Hansawhit' (PBR) (F)
![strawberry [Snow White]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b57f126cf5.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
The Snow White strawberry is a unique and attractive variety that bears fruit which are notable for their pale, almost white coloration. The berries are tinged with a blush of pink, making them remarkably different from the typical red strawberries. This variety produces large, aromatic berries that contrast beautifully against the lush green foliage. The leaves of the plant are broad and deeply green, providing a dense background for the unusual fruit. Each berry is characteristically heart-shaped with a glossy sheen and dotted with tiny, prominent seeds that add texture to the outer surface. The blossoms from which these fruits develop are a pure, bright white, and they possess a delicate appeal that complements the overall aesthetic of the plant. Overall, the Snow White strawberry is sought after both for its ornamental appeal and its uniquely colored and flavored fruit.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Snow White Strawberry, White Strawberry, Pineberry, White Pineberry, White Soul Strawberry, Alpine White Strawberry
Common names
Fragaria × ananassa Snow White = 'Hansawhit' (PBR) (F).
ToxicityTo humans
Strawberry 'Snow White' is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There should be no adverse effects from consuming this fruit as it is a variety of the common garden strawberry cultivated for human consumption. However, as with any new food, it is possible for individuals to experience an allergic reaction, which can present as oral irritation, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis in severe cases. If such symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.
To pets
Strawberry 'Snow White' is considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. It is a variety of the common garden strawberry, which is often safe for pets to consume in moderation. Overconsumption may cause gastrointestinal upset due to the natural sugars and fiber in the fruit, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting. However, these effects are generally not serious. Always introduce new foods to your pet in small quantities and observe for any adverse reactions. If you are unsure, consult with a veterinarian before offering strawberries to your pet.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Snow White strawberry produces unique white strawberries, which add an unusual and attractive visual element to gardens and landscapes.
- Edible Fruit: Offers a crop of sweet, pineapple-flavored strawberries that can be eaten fresh or used in various culinary preparations.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the pollination of many other garden plants.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Can be used in a range of garden designs including borders, containers, and as ground cover.
- Low Maintenance: Typically requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it returns year after year, providing a long-term presence in the garden.
- Compact Growth Habits: Suitable for small gardens or balcony spaces where ground area is limited.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible arrangements: The white strawberries from the Snow White variety can be used in edible arrangements for their unique color, offering an unexpected twist on the classic red strawberry presentation.
- Natural Fabric Dye: The pale fruit of Snow White strawberries can be used to create a soft pink or pale dye for fabrics, especially when combined with mordants to fix the color.
- Photography subjects: These unusual strawberries make intriguing subjects for still life photography because of their uncommon appearance, allowing photographers to create striking images.
- Garnish for drinks: The white strawberries can be used to garnish cocktails and other beverages, where their distinct color can create a visually appealing contrast.
- Wedding decorations: Due to their unique color, Snow White strawberries can be incorporated into wedding décor themes, especially for table centerpieces or as part of dessert displays.
- Culinary arts classes: Snow White strawberries can be used as a specialty ingredient for culinary students to learn about less common produce and the importance of visual appeal in plating.
- Theme parties: These strawberries can be featured in winter-themed parties or "white" parties, where the décor and food items all adhere to a white color scheme.
- Plant pigmentation studies: Snow White strawberries can be used in educational settings to demonstrate the variability of pigmentation in plants and the effects of breeding on fruit characteristics.
- Art supplies: Crushed Snow White strawberries can be used as a natural watercolor paint for art projects, especially for creating pale, pastel colors.
- Cooking workshops: This variety of strawberry can be the centerpiece of a themed cooking workshop where participants learn to create dishes that feature white fruits and vegetables.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe strawberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe strawberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Innocence: The pure white color of the 'Snow White' strawberry often represents purity and innocence, evoking a sense of untouched beauty found in nature.
- Perfection: The flawless appearance of the white fruit is frequently associated with perfection and an ideal state, which might be unattainable or rare.
- Rarity: As white strawberries are less common than their red counterparts, they symbolize rarity and uniqueness, highlighting the distinctiveness of the individual or situation they represent.
- Fertility: Strawberries in general have been a symbol of fertility due to their prolific seed production, an association which may carry over to the 'Snow White' variety, even with its unusual coloration.
- Love and Venus: Owing to their heart shape and traditional red color, strawberries are linked to love and the goddess Venus. 'Snow White' strawberries maintain this connection through their form, despite the color difference.
WaterWater Snow White strawberries deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth, typically once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant each time during the growing season. If the weather is particularly hot or dry, increase watering to twice per week. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During winter, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture. Always water at the base to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases from developing.
LightSnow White strawberries prefer full sun conditions, receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for these plants is in an area where they can enjoy uninterrupted sun exposure throughout the day, which is crucial for fruit production and flavor development. Avoid overly shady spots to ensure healthy growth and optimal fruiting.
TemperatureSnow White strawberries thrive in a temperature range of 35°F to 80°F, tolerating a minimum temperature of around 20°F and a maximum of 85°F. The ideal temperature for growing these strawberries is between 65°F and 75°F, which promotes strong growth and fruit development. Ensure that they are protected from extreme temperatures both in winter and summer.
PruningPrune Snow White strawberries to remove any dead or diseased foliage, and to shape the plant for better light exposure and airflow, which reduces disease risks. Pruning is best done immediately after fruiting has ended in the summer. Thin out older, less productive runners to encourage new growth and larger berries. Annual pruning helps maintain plant vigor and promotes healthy fruit yields.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Snow White Strawberry is well-draining soil with a blend of peat, sand, and loam at a pH of 5.5 to 6.5, rich in organic matter.
RepottingSnow White Strawberries should be repotted annually to replenish nutrients and support their growth.
Humidity & MistingSnow White Strawberries thrive best at moderate humidity levels, typically between 40% to 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and well-draining soil for indoor Snow White Strawberries.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from extreme cold for outdoor growth.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Snow White Strawberry ('Fragaria × ananassa Snow White') begins its life cycle when seeds germinate or when runners from a parent plant root into the soil, developing into new plants. These perennial plants then grow leaves and establish a rosette-like formation from which flowers emerge, typically in early to late spring. After pollination, often aided by bees or other pollinators, the flowers develop into unique white strawberries that gradually ripen during the summer months. Once the fruit matures, it can be harvested, and the plant will continue to produce strawberries throughout the growing season, given the right conditions. Toward the end of the growing season, the plant begins to prepare for dormancy, conserving energy and resources to survive the winter. With the arrival of the next spring, the strawberry plant re-emerges from dormancy and begins the cycle anew, sending out new runners to propagate and bearing fruit again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Fragaria × ananassa 'Snow White', commonly known as the Snow White Strawberry, is through runner division. This plant typically sends out runners, which are long, horizontal stems that grow outward from the main plant. At various points along these runners, small plantlets with their own roots can form. The best time to propagate by dividing runners is in the late summer or early fall. To do this, carefully separate the plantlets from the runners once they have developed a good root system, which usually requires a runner length of about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters). Each plantlet can then be replanted in a well-prepared soil with good drainage and sufficient organic matter to foster growth. It is important to keep the young plants well-watered until they become established in their new location.
