Fragaria x ananassa is a hybrid of New World natives F. chiloensis and F. virginiana. Jefferson grew a related species F. vesca, or Alpine Strawberry, which he described in a letter to James Monroe as one of the "three objects which you should endeavor to enrich our country with." With a reputation as being easy to grow and hardy in winter, F. x ananassa is common in nurseries today and several varieties are available.

Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Strawberry.

Typical Blooming Dates: April-May
Growth Type: Perennial
Blossom Color(s): White
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Location at Monticello: Vegetable Garden
Planting Conditions: Full Sun

Featured in "A Rich Spot of Earth" June 2023 Podcast

Join Monticello's gardeners for a conversation on vining plants, self-sowing annuals, trees that flower in the summer, and weeds and what to do about them.