Ichigo, also known by her code number 015, is a central figure in her narrative as the determined and responsible leader of the 13th Plantation's parasite unit. She is presented as a serious, reliable, and studious individual who takes her duties seriously, often acting as a big sister figure to her fellow pilots. Her natural leadership skills are recognized by her high aptitude scores, and she is driven to do her best for the sake of her team. Despite her capable exterior, she has a tendency to internalize her worries and struggles alone, and her strong emotions can sometimes cloud her judgment, particularly in situations that involve those she cares about most.

Her background is rooted in the artificial Garden where she was raised. As a child, she felt insecure about being different from the other children who had stopped showing emotion. A formative moment occurred when her childhood friend, Hiro, gave her the name Ichigo, which is derived from the numbers in her code, teaching her that having a unique name makes it acceptable to be different. From that point on, she developed a deep admiration and unspoken romantic affection for Hiro, which becomes a primary motivation for many of her actions throughout the story. She is fiercely protective of him, driven by a desire to keep him safe from harm, a motivation that intensifies after he loses his ability to pilot a FRANXX and later becomes the partner of Zero Two, a pilot with a dangerous reputation.

In her role as the leader of Squad 13, Ichigo pilots the FRANXX unit Delphinium, partnered with her close friend Goro. On the battlefield, she is a skilled pilot who demonstrates courage and quick decision-making, such as when she swam into a dangerous zone to rescue Goro. She is capable of piloting a FRANXX solo for a short time if necessary, though it is not her forte. Her abilities are not just physical; she possesses a keen understanding of situations and the resolve to act decisively when it is most needed, making her an effective, if sometimes emotionally-driven, commander.

Her key relationships are central to her character arc. Her bond with Hiro is the most significant, evolving from childhood admiration to a complex mix of love, protectiveness, and jealousy, particularly toward Zero Two. Her relationship with Zero Two begins with suspicion and open hostility, as she fears the mysterious pilot will consume Hiro's life force. This leads to her most controversial actions, including an attempt to physically separate them and a confession of her own feelings to Hiro. In contrast, her partnership with Goro is one of steady support. Goro, who is in love with her, consistently acts as her emotional anchor, helping her to see clearly when her feelings overwhelm her. She also shares a close friendship with her squadmate Ikuno, whom she comforts and encourages.

Throughout the narrative, Ichigo undergoes significant development. Initially, she struggles to balance her duties as a leader with her personal desires, often making impulsive decisions based on her fear of losing Hiro. However, over time, she matures, learning to put the well-being of the entire squad and Hiro's own happiness before her personal feelings. She eventually accepts and supports Hiro and Zero Two's relationship, extending her fierce protectiveness to include Zero Two as an integral member of Squad 13. By the story's conclusion, she has grown into a wiser and more selfless individual, demonstrating her full commitment to her friends by supporting Hiro's final sacrifice and dedicating herself to rebuilding a future. In the epilogue, she is shown to have married Goro and is expecting a child, finding her own happiness after letting go of her unrequited love for Hiro.