Wild Strawberries
Lindsey Koepke @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
James L. Reveal @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. 3 vols. Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. Vol. 2: 260.
Names: Ootsistsíín (Blackfoot); Otehiminipukos (Cree); Wild Strawberry (English); Fraisier des Champs (French); Fragaria virginiana (Latin)
Other Common Names: Heart Berry
Characteristics: Short plant with numerous long runners and toothed leaflets. Blooms white flowers with 5 petals, producing red edible juicy red berries.
Habitat and Origin: Widespread in Canada. Especially common in moist woodlands and clearings.
Optimal Growing Conditions: Moist soil, direct sunlight.
Edible Portions: Berries
Aboriginal Peoples Uses: Cree used roots, leaves, and berries to treat diarrhea and dysentery. Teas often made with yarrow to cure insanity. Teas made from the leaves have been used on the skin to treat a variety of ailments. Stems and roots also boiled to make mouthwash for sore throats, mouth sores, and stain/tartar removal. Also potentially able to whiten sunburnt skin.