Barren strawberry, also known as Waldsteinia ternata, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial ground cover. It is a member of the rose family and is native to Europe. While it may not be as well-known as its edible strawberry relatives, barren strawberry offers its own unique beauty and benefits in the garden.
One of the concerns some gardeners may have about barren strawberry is its potential for invasiveness. This is because the plant spreads rapidly through the production of runners, just like edible strawberries. These runners can quickly take over an area and crowd out other plants if left unchecked.
However, it is important to note that the term “invasive” can be subjective and can vary depending on the specific gardening context. In some situations, a plant that is considered invasive in one region may be perfectly well-behaved in another. It is always a good idea to check with local gardening authorities or consult a knowledgeable gardener in your area to get a better understanding of how a particular plant behaves in your specific location.
In my personal experience, I have found barren strawberry to be a relatively well-behaved ground cover. It does spread through runners, but it has not become overly aggressive or invasive in my garden. I have planted it in a mixed border where it has thrived and provided attractive ground cover without causing any issues with other plants.
To help manage the potential for invasiveness, there are a few strategies you can employ. Firstly, regular monitoring and maintenance are key. Keep an eye on the plant’s growth and remove any runners that are spreading too far or encroaching on other plants. This will help keep the plant in check and prevent it from becoming too invasive.
Another strategy is to contain the plant using physical barriers. You can create edging or install a root barrier to prevent the runners from spreading beyond a certain area. This can help control the plant’s growth and prevent it from becoming invasive.
Additionally, regular pruning can help keep barren strawberry in check. By cutting back the plant after flowering, you can prevent it from setting seed and spreading further. This can also help promote compact growth and keep the plant looking tidy.
In terms of its environmental impact, barren strawberry is generally considered to be a low-maintenance and environmentally-friendly ground cover option. It is drought-tolerant once established and can help suppress weed growth, reducing the need for chemical herbicides. Its dense foliage also helps prevent soil erosion and can provide habitat for beneficial insects.
While barren strawberry does have the potential to be invasive due to its rapid spreading nature, it can be managed with regular monitoring, maintenance, and containment strategies. Its benefits as an attractive ground cover and its environmental friendliness make it a valuable addition to the garden.
