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Indian Strawberry

Duchesnea indica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Indian Strawberry (Duchesnea indica)
Photo: Wouter Hagens / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

3"–12" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Native to

OK

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Indian strawberry is a low-growing groundcover that spreads by runners to form dense mats. It produces small yellow flowers from spring through summer, followed by red berries that resemble tiny strawberries but are bland and not typically eaten.

In an HOA neighborhood

Indian Strawberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Aggressive spreader that can look weedy
  • May be viewed as invasive groundcover
  • Can overtake neighboring plants quickly

Wildlife value

The flowers provide nectar for bees and small beetles during its extended blooming period. Birds may occasionally eat the small red berries.

Common questions

How much sun does Indian Strawberry need?
Indian Strawberry grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Indian Strawberry bloom?
Indian Strawberry blooms in April, May, June, and July.
Where is Indian Strawberry native?
Indian Strawberry (Duchesnea indica) is native to OK, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Indian Strawberry attract?
Indian Strawberry draws bees and beetles.
Is Indian Strawberry HOA-friendly?
Indian Strawberry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Indian Strawberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz