Fraises des Bois (French for "strawberries of the woods") refers to a cultivated form of alpine or woodland strawberry, Fragaria vesca, prized for its small, intensely flavorful berries. These heirloom strawberries produce fragrant, red fruit with a rich, sweet flavor and aromatic quality that far surpasses that of conventional strawberries.

The plants are compact and low-growing, typically reaching 6 to 8 inches in height. Unlike modern hybrids, Fraises des Bois does not produce runners, making it ideal for tidy edging, containers, or small garden spaces. Berries begin ripening in late spring and continue through summer, especially when grown in full sun with rich, well-drained soil.

This variety is often grown more for gourmet quality than high volume, and the delicate fruits are best eaten fresh, added to desserts, or used in small-batch preserves.

Key Features:

• Small, intensely sweet and aromatic berries

• Compact, non-running plants (6–8 in. tall)

• Harvest begins in late spring and continues through summer

• Ideal for containers, edging, or specialty fruit gardens

• Thrives in full sun and rich, well-drained soil

• Gourmet-quality fruit with exceptional flavor

Fraises des Bois offers an old-world charm and unmatched flavor, making it a must-grow for strawberry lovers and culinary gardeners alike.