Barren Strawberry (Geum fragariodes)

Barren Strawberry leaves look like wild strawberry, but the 3 leaflets are more rounded. It is named barren because the ripe seeds are not on or in a berry. These plant are not in the same genus, but they are in the same family.

This plant is scattered throughout the state and is not considered common, but if you find it, it may be in a rather large patch in moist woodlands. In the north it may be in shallow soil or more open woods and savannahs. Barren strawberry grows in the shade or part-shade. Any areas that are particularly hot should be avoided.

The flower is yellow with five petals and many stamens. Small groups of yellow flowers bloom in May and June. Petals stay around for only a few days, then fall to the ground.

Try this as a ground cover. It is not particularly aggressive (though it does spread by rhizome) so could be a great plant to fill in around other taller plants.

Barren Strawberry (Geum fragariodes)

Michigan Flora reference page for state distribution: Barren Strawberry

Height: 6-9”

Bloom time: May-June

Soil: clay, loam, rocky

Sun: part-shade to shade

Plant spacing: 9”

Flower: yellow

Life cycle: perennial

Family: Rosaceae

Seed source: Michigan