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strawberry tree

Scientific Name: Arbutus unedo

Family: Ericaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Arbutus unedo: The Strawberry Tree

Arbutus unedo, commonly known as the Strawberry Tree, is a captivating evergreen shrub or small tree that brings unique beauty and year-round interest to gardens and landscapes.

Considerations for Pets

  • The Strawberry Tree produces red, strawberry-like fruits in autumn.
  • The leaves are described as leathery.

Considerations for Children

  • The Strawberry Tree produces red, strawberry-like fruits in autumn. Note that while they resemble strawberries, the text indicates they don't taste like them.
  • The leaves are described as leathery.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Arbutus unedo
  • Common Names: Strawberry Tree, Irish Strawberry, Killarney Strawberry
  • Family: Ericaceae (Heath family)
  • Synonyms: Arbutus vulgaris, Unedo edulis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Mediterranean region, western Europe, and Ireland (where it is known as the Killarney Strawberry).
  • Arbutus menziesii, also called Pacific Madrone or Madrona, is native to northwestern North America.
  • An excellent tree for coastal gardens.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching up to twenty feet in some cases.
  • Bushy habit with rough brown bark and dark green leathery leaves.
  • Small, bell-shaped creamy-white or pink flowers.
  • Distinctive red, globular fruits with rough-textured skin, resembling strawberries. The fruits are about 3/4 inch in diameter.
  • The tree often carries both mature fruit and flowers simultaneously due to the fruit's 12-month ripening period.
  • Has neatly serrated leathery foliage and a refined shape.

Quirky Facts

  • Despite their appearance, Strawberry Tree fruits reportedly don't taste like strawberries.
  • Strawberry Tree honey, also known as Arbutus Unedo "bitter honey," has a strong, bitter flavour, is highly medicinal, and comes from only three places: southern Portugal, Sardinia, and sometimes Portland.
  • It is known for its "seasons of interest" tag line.

Ecological Role

  • Drought tolerant shrub.
  • The fruit is edible.

Further Information

  • The Woodland Trust is referenced as a source of further information.