How Are Mock and Wild Strawberry Plants Different?
Scientific Names:Wild strawberry is Fragaria vesca, while mock strawberry is Duchesnea indica (also called Indian strawberry).
Fruit Appearance:Wild strawberries have red, juicy fruits with seeds embedded in the surface. Mock strawberries also have red fruits, but they look dry and puffier.
Taste:Wild strawberries are sweet and flavorful. Mock strawberries are bland or tasteless.
Flowers:Wild strawberries have white flowers. Mock strawberries have yellow flowers.
Leaf Texture:Wild strawberry leaves are soft with serrated edges. Mock strawberry leaves are rougher and shinier.
Growth Habit:Both grow low to the ground, but mock strawberries spread more aggressively and can take over gardens.
Edibility:Wild strawberries are completely edible and delicious. Mock strawberries are technically edible but not commonly eaten due to poor taste.
Habitat:Wild strawberries prefer natural areas like woodlands and meadows. Mock strawberries grow in disturbed areas, gardens, and lawns.