Fragaria vesca L.
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Authority
Popenoe, Wilson. 1924. Economic fruit-bearing plants of Ecuador. Contr. U. S. Natl. Herb. 24: i-ix, 101-134. pl. 34-49.
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Family
Rosaceae
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Scientific Name
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Description
Description - [No description provided.]
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Discussion
This species is believed to have come to Ecuador from Europe, probably along with the seed of barley or some other European gram. It has, however, assumed the appearance of an indigenous plant in several parts of the Republic and still more noticeably so in the Department of Cundinamarca, Colombia. In Ecuador the fruit is not esteemed and is, in fact, rarely used, the species being cultivated in gardens more as an ornamental than as a fruit-bearing plant. In Colombia, however, the fruit is much liked, and is commonly sold in the markets of Bogotá. The largest specimens are about a centimeter in length, broadly oval to round, bright red, of delicate texture and aromatic flavor, though sometimes possessing an unpleasant bitterness. When cooked they yield an excellent preserve, and it is in this form that they are most commonly served in Bogotá.
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Common Names
fresa, frutilla