Arbutus unedo Strawberry tree (Ericaceae) Evergreen tree

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Arbutus unedo
Strawberry tree
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Arbutus unedo plant species is found in S. Europe and S.W. Ireland. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Strawberry tree.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Arbutus unedo
Common Name:  Strawberry tree
Family:  Ericaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  9   Mature Width:  8

Habitat:  Woodland, scrub and rocky hillsides, often on limestone and sandstone[17, 45].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a nutrient-rich well-drained moisture-retentive soil in sun or semi-shade and shelter from cold drying winds, especially when young[11, 200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils and in dry soils. Most species in this genus require a lime-free soil but this species is fairly lime tolerant[11, 200]. Succeeds in fairly exposed maritime positions[166, 200]. A tree in a very exposed position at Rosewarne in N. Cornwall was looking rather tattered in April 1987 but it was 4.5 metres tall and carrying a very good crop of immature fruit[K]. Tolerates industrial pollution[200]. Plants have withstood temperatures down to -16°c without injury at Kew[11]. They grow very well in S.W. England, fruiting well in Cornwall[49, 59]. Plants resent root disturbance and are best placed in their final positions whilst young[11, 134]. Give them some protection in their first winter. The strawberry tree flowers in November and December, the fruit takes 12 months to ripen and so the tree carries both mature fruit and flowers at the same time and is incredibly beautiful at this time[K]. The flowers have a soft honey scent[245]. There are a number of named varieties[183] developed for their ornamental value. 'Elfin King', 'Croomei' and 'Rubra' are all small forms that fruit well when small[182]. The variety 'Rubra' was 1.2 metres tall at Kew in late 1990 and was laden down with fruits and flowers[K]. 'Elfin King' only reaches a height of 1 metre, comes into bearing when young and fruits well[183]. It is ideal for container culture[183]. 'Croomei' is said to be a more reliable fruiting form[49].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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