Selecting an effective ground cover is crucial for weed suppression and erosion control in gardens. While strawberries can serve as a tasty ground cover, they might not be ideal if you’re not interested in harvesting the berries or dealing with their mess. An alternative is barren strawberries (Waldsteinia fragarioides), which offer strawberry-like leaves, delightful yellow flowers, and no messy fruits. Moreover, similar to many true strawberries (Fragaria spp.), they are indigenous to North America.
Although their name suggests otherwise, barren strawberries are not closely related to true strawberries, despite both being part of the rose family (Rosaceae). Unlike true strawberries with their white flowers, barren strawberries feature yellow blooms. Additionally, barren strawberries produce dry, inedible, and non-toxic fruits, unlike the juicy fruits of true strawberries. Their ability to spread and form mats quickly without becoming invasive makes them perfect for adding evergreen foliage and bright yellow flowers to gardens.
Conditions for Growing Barren Strawberries
Barren strawberries are resilient in USDA zones 3 through 7, making them a suitable ground cover for much of the United States. However, they may struggle in regions with hot summers, so gardeners in the southern parts of the country might need alternative ground cover solutions. These plants thrive in full sun or partial shade, and their adaptability to dappled shade makes them ideal for planting under trees and in woodland settings.
Barren strawberries can adapt to various soil conditions, including loamy and clay-rich soils, provided the soil is well-draining. They prefer acidic soil with a pH of less than 6, making them an excellent companion for other vibrant plants that thrive in acidic environments, such as azaleas and rhododendrons. Despite their preference for acidic soil, they can also grow in more alkaline conditions, showcasing their versatility as a ground cover.
Using Barren Strawberries as a Ground Cover in Gardens
With a modest height of about 6 inches, barren strawberries are compact enough to fit at the front of most gardens, effectively outcompeting weeds and providing a vibrant living mulch. Being evergreen, with leaves that turn a bronze hue in colder months, they offer a simple way to maintain winter interest in your garden. Their cheerful yellow blooms in spring make them a perfect pairing with equally bright flowers like tulips and daffodils.
Barren strawberries can endure foot traffic, making them an eco-friendly grass alternative for lawns. They are somewhat drought-resistant, allowing for a beautiful lawn that uses considerably less water than traditional turfgrass. Additionally, their tolerance to road salt makes them an excellent low-maintenance choice for challenging locations such as hellstrips, where many plants may not thrive.
