barren strawberry

Waldsteinia fragarioides

Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides) is an evergreen, rhizomatous perennial native to slopes and woodlands of cool and temperate temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. This low-growing plant has small dark green glossy leaves and yellow flowers in early spring. Its small, hard strawberries are better suited for ornamental purposes than consumption, though, because they aren't particularly flavorful. Barren strawberry is attractive, deer-resistant and easy to establish in lawns and landscape beds and can tolerate drought and rocky soil conditions. It can be beneficial for wildlife, providing nectar and food for pollinators. Its ability to spread by underground stolons also makes it a great choice for ground covers and erosion control.