Arbutus unedo (Strawberry Tree)

Botanical Information

FamilyEricaceae
GenusArbutus
Speciesunedo
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (evergreen), Shrub (evergreen)
OriginNative to the Mediterranean region and western Europe north to western France and Ireland.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer		Fruit is edible, but bland.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone6b - 7a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH6 - H5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-18 - (-12)
Temperature (°F)0 - 10
Height5-10 m

Description and Growing Information

ShapeAppears as a tall shrub or small tree.
LandscapeExcellent ornamental plant, working well as a lawn specimen, either in the shrub border or at the edge of a woodland garden. Also well-suited to maritime plantings, and is tolerant of industrial pollution.
PropagationPropagate through basal cuttings taken in late winter, or by layering.
CultivationPlant in full sun or partial shade in nutrient-rich but lime-free moisture-retentive soil that is well-drained.
PestsMay be infected by a leaf spot disease, and may also become infested by the viburnum whitefly.
Bark/Stem DescriptionBark is coarse and flaking.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves to 10 cm, oblong or ovate, shining above.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are white or tinged pink, to 1 cm.
Fruit DescriptionFruit is scarlet and rough, as well as being edible, although bland.

Photographs