Arbutus unedo 'Atlantic' (Atlantic Strawberry Tree)


Botanical Information

FamilyEricaceae
GenusArbutus
Speciesunedo
Cultivar'Atlantic'
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (evergreen), Shrub (evergreen)
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer
Fruit is edible, but bland.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7b - 8a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone7
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15 - (-9)
Temperature (°F)5 - 15
Height4 - 8 m
Spread4 - 8 m
Flowering PeriodSeptember, October

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionAn evergreen tree or shrub with small white flowers in late autumn that are followed by a fruit that is similar in appearance to a strawberry.
ShapeMostly seen multi-stemmed, but can be shaped to form a single trunk.
LandscapeAccent or ornamental specimen tree with year-round interest.
PropagationPropagate through basal cuttings taken in late winter.
CultivationGrow in full sun or partial shade in a moist, well-drained soil, taking care to plant in a sheltered site.
PestsAphids and fungal leaf spot should be watched for.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Bark/Stem DescriptionBark of mature plants is red-brown and shredding.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves are dark green, glossy and leathery, growing up to 10 cm in length, with serrated margins.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are small and white, appearing in drooping panicles.
Fruit DescriptionFruit is similar to a strawberry in appearance, ripening from yellow to red, with a rather bland flavour.

Photographs