Beach strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis) is a hardy, low-growing perennial native to coastal areas of the Americas, including the Pacific coasts of North and South America. It's a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and one of the wild species from which modern cultivated strawberries are derived.
🌱 Basic Info
Scientific name: Fragaria chiloensis
Common names: Beach strawberry, coastal strawberry, Chilean strawberry
Family: Rosaceae
Origin: Native to coastal North and South America; especially common along the Pacific coasts of California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and down to Chile.
🌊 Habitat & Growth
Grows in coastal dunes, bluffs, and open woodland edges.
Thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and is highly tolerant of salt spray and wind.
Functions as a ground cover with runners (stolons) that root and spread, making it great for erosion control.
🌸 Appearance
Leaves: Shiny, dark green, trifoliate (three leaflets), and leathery in texture.
White to pale pink, about 1 inch across, bloom in spring to early summer.
Fruits: Small, red, sweet strawberries—smaller than commercial varieties but very flavorful.
🌿 Uses
Edible: Fruits are edible and delicious, though not as large as cultivated varieties.
Ornamental: Excellent native ground cover for coastal or drought-tolerant gardens.
Ecological: Supports native pollinators and wildlife; good for habitat restoration.
🌞 Growing Tips
Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
Water: Drought-tolerant once established, but appreciates some summer water inland.
Propagation: Easy to propagate via runners or division.
