Woodland strawberry (fragaria vesca), historically an ancestor of the domesticated garden strawberries we have today, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the rose family that can be found throughout Humboldt. Though small in size, the berries are strongly flavored and taste like their domesticated cousins. They are completely edible and may be eaten raw or used as strawberries in recipes such as jams, tarts, or pies.
Woodland strawberries tend to grow on slightly rocky but moist ground, forest edges or alpine slopes. Pick berries with care as they bruise easily. Be sure to watch for a lookallike species ‘mock strawberries.’ While not poisonous, these berries are virtually tasteless. Mock strawberries may be easily identified as they have yellow flowers whereas woodland strawberry flowers are white. If no flowers are visible, crush a berry between your fingers and check the scent. As always, be cautious while foraging.
Sources: Fragaria vesca–wikipedia and Wild Strawberry, an Age-Old and Fruitful Favorite–eattheplanet.org | Photos: Peter Adermark, Marilylle Soveran, and das_butzele on Flickr.