Indian strawberry
Potentilla indica · Rosaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant indian strawberry: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April to July)
- Flowers
- Small solitary yellow flowers
- Fruits
- Small decorative red strawberries, not very flavorful
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall, trailing habit
- Growth
- Fast to moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy to approximately -10 °C
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist, without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter. Prefer watering at the base to avoid wet foliage and fungal diseases.
Light exposure
Place your Indian strawberry in full sun to partial shade. Good light promotes flowering and fruiting. Protect it from strong winds that could damage its delicate habit.
Soil
Prefer well-draining soil, slightly acidic to neutral, rich in organic matter. A mix of quality potting soil with a little sand improves drainage and prevents root rot.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer diluted every 2 to 3 weeks during growth and flowering. Reduce applications in winter. A layer of compost on the surface in spring works very well too.
Pruning and cleanup
Regularly remove runners (trailing stems) to control spread, or let them develop if you want dense coverage. Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain a attractive shape.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew in stagnant humid conditions and spider mites in dry conditions. Good drainage and sufficient air circulation limit fungal problems. Check the underside of leaves regularly.
Did you know?
The Potentilla indica has long fascinated botanists: although it produces small tempting red strawberries, it's mainly grown for its ornamental qualities, particularly in India where it symbolizes a certain miniature abundance. Its trailing habit makes it valuable in container gardening and hanging baskets, far from the food plant role you might be tempted to give it.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.