The distinction between edible forest straps and crazy strawberry represents a fundamental knowledge for those who love naturalistic excursions. Although similar in appearance, these two fruits have substantial differences that it is important to know how to recognize.
Origin and distribution
The strawberries of Bosco (Fragaria Vesca) They are natives of Europe and Siberia, growing spontaneously up to almost two thousand meters above sea level. In Italy they find particular cultivation in the northern regions, with Trentino standing for quality production.
There crazy strawberry (Duchesnea indicates), also known as false strawberry O Potentilla indicates, instead has Asian origins. This species was introduced to Europe during the nineteenth century through the botanical garden of Turin, initially as a botanical exhibition curiosity, and then spread in natural environments.
The strawberries of forest belong to the fragaria genus and have a typical structure of the rosaceae. The plant develops stolons that allow vegetative reproduction, often creating extensive colonies. The leaves are trifoliolated, with a toothed margin and slightly pubescent surface. The radical system is superficial but well branched, adapted to the absorption of the humidity of the undergrowth.
The crazy strawberry, classified as Duchesnea indicates or Potentilla indicates, has similar morphological characteristics but with significant differences. The plant is also stalonifera, but the leaves tend to be more leathery and more intense green in color. The height rarely exceeds 20 centimeters, with a decidedly prostrate bearing.
Bosco strawberries play a fundamental role in the wooded ecosystem. The fruits represent an important food source for numerous animal species, including small mammals, birds and insects. The dispersion of the seeds takes place mainly through the endoziochry, that is, the transport through the intestinal transit of the animals that are nourished.
The crazy strawberry, although not a native species, integrated into European ecosystems without causing particular problems. However, its presence can indicate alterations of the original habitat, often related to anthropic activities or climate change.
When they flourish
The flowering period of the woods of forest generally extends from April to June, with possible secondary blooms in autumn in favorable climatic conditions. The hermaphrodite flowers have a pentamera structure typical of rosaceous, with white petals that attract pollinating insects such as bees and syrfids.
The crazy strawberry has a more prolonged reproductive cycle, with flowering that can extend from late spring to the first cold autumn. The yellow flowers are equally hermaphrodite but their coloring attracts a different spectrum of pollinators.
Distinctive features
Bearing of the fruit
One of the most obvious differences concerns the way the fruits occur on the plant. The strawberries of forest, due to their weight, tend to bend towards the ground, taking on a pendulous position. On the contrary, the crazy strawberry maintains a erect position on the stem, similar to that of a flower.
Surface and seeds
The observation of the fruit surface reveals crucial details for identification. Bosco strawberries have a surface dotted with small seeds that vary from yellow to rose-red, a characteristic shared with cultivated strawberries. The crazy strawberry, on the other hand, does not have real seeds but small red protuberances distributed on the surface.
Flowering
The color of the flowers is a reliable indicator even at a distance. The strawberries of Bosco produce white flowers with five petals, while the crazy strawberry stands out for its yellow flowers, also pentameric but of a decidedly different color.
Size
The strawberries of forest generally maintain small dimensions, rarely exceeding 10-15 mm in diameter. Matta strawberry can instead reach larger dimensions, often resulting more voluminous than the edible counterparty.
Organoleptic characteristics
From a sensory point of view, the differences are marked. Bosco strawberries emanate a delicate but distinctive perfume, similar to that of cultivated strawberries. The crazy strawberry is practically odorless and has an watery internal consistency, without the characteristic sweet taste of strawberries.
Where is the crazy strawberry
Both species prefer humid and shaded environments, typical of undergrowth. They grow in fresh areas and can be found in considerable quantities, often in areas of difficult access that require particular attention for correct identification. The presence of decomponent organic substance is fundamental for their development. Bosco strawberries show greater tolerance to low temperatures, growing up to high altitudes where late frosts are frequent.
Nutritional and safety aspects
Bosco strawberries are completely edible and appreciated for their intense flavor and nutritional properties. They can be consumed fresh or used for confectionery preparations.
The crazy strawberry, although not poisonous in the strict sense, It is not recommended for food consumption. The ingestion of significant quantities can cause gastrointestinal disorders, including abdominal pain and episodes of dysentery. The plant is used in some traditions of Asian popular medicine, but the consumption of fruits remains not recommended.
How they are used
In European popular medicine, the strawberries of berries have been used for centuries for their astringent and anti -inflammatory properties. The leaves, in particular, were used to prepare useful infusions in the treatment of mild gastrointestinal disorders.
The crazy strawberry, in its area of Asian origin, finds application in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is known as “she mei” and used for its alleged anti -inflammatory and detoxifying properties, mainly through the use of leaves and not fruits.
How to identify them safely
For a safe collection it is essential to follow a systematic identification protocol. It is recommended to initially observe the surrounding area to identify the presence of flowers, a more reliable discriminating element. Subsequently, check the position of the fruit compared to the stem and the presence of superficial seeds.
In case of collection with children, it is essential to provide careful preventive education, showing the differences through practical examples and underlining the importance of not consuming unidentified fruits with certainty.
What happens if you ingest the crazy strawberry
The accidental ingestion of crazy strawberry, although not lethal, can cause significant disorders. Symptoms include nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and in more severe dehydration cases. In the presence of symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially if you involve sensitive subjects such as children or elderly people.
Recommendations for collection
The correct identification requires careful observation of multiple characteristics simultaneously. It is recommended to verify the color of the flowers, the position of the fruit, the presence of seeds and the smell before proceeding with the collection. In case of doubts, it is always preferable to avoid consumption.
The knowledge of these differences allows you to safely enjoy naturalistic excursions, appreciating the genuine gifts of the forest without incurring unpleasant inconveniences. Continuous training and constant attention remain the best tools for a responsible and safe collection.
