Strawberry leaves come from the Fragaria genus, which includes common garden strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa). While primarily grown for their sweet berries, strawberry plants also produce leaves that have been used in traditional remedies and herbal preparations.

Characteristics

• Appearance: Strawberry leaves are trifoliate, meaning they consist of three serrated leaflets connected to a single stem. They are bright green with a slightly fuzzy texture and serrated edges.
• Texture and Aroma: The leaves have a mild, earthy aroma and a delicate texture, especially when young. As they mature, the leaves can become tougher.
• Plant: The strawberry plant itself is a low-growing perennial that produces clusters of leaves, white flowers, and eventually red, juicy strawberries.

Common Uses

• Herbal Teas: Strawberry leaves are often dried and used in herbal teas. They provide a mild, earthy flavor and can be blended with other herbs.
• Traditional Medicine: Historically, strawberry leaves have been used in various folk remedies, sometimes being used for mild digestive support or as a gentle diuretic.
• Antioxidants: The leaves contain some antioxidants, including tannins and flavonoids, which are compounds found in many plants.

While generally safe for culinary use when young, it’s important to note that older strawberry leaves may contain compounds that could irritate some people. Dried strawberry leaves are widely available for teas, but fresh leaves can also be used with caution in small amounts.