How to identify Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo)
Strawberry tree, also known as Irish strawberry tree, Arbutus tree
Strawberry tree typically reaches heights of about 35 feet (approximately 10.7 meters) with an equal spread. This evergreen exhibits a rounded shape and sheds its bark, revealing a striking red-colored new bark underneath. White flowers blossom in the fall, giving way to edible red fruits that resemble strawberries and persist into winter. The fruit has a high sugar content but tastes somewhat bland. Strawberry tree thrives in a variety of conditions, tolerating drought but also accepting regular watering.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
Leaf Type: Evergreen
Distinctive glossy green leaves with serrated margins and red undersides.
Tree sheds grayish-brown bark to reveal striking red inner bark.
White urn-shaped flowers in drooping panicles emit mild fragrance.
Rough-textured red berries resembling strawberries persist alongside flowers.
Robust, irregular reddish-brown stems with shallow vertical fissures.
The leaves of strawberry tree are an essential identifier. They are glossy green, measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length and 0.8-1.25 inches (2-3 cm) in width. The margins are serrated, adding a textured edge to the smooth, shiny surface. The leaves have acute tips and wedge-shaped (cuneate) bases. Notably, the undersides are paler and glabrous, providing a subtle contrast. The red stems enhance the distinct appearance of these leaves.
The flowers of strawberry tree are small, urn-shaped, and predominantly white, though they can occasionally be a light pink. They emit a mild fragrance and grow in drooping panicles containing 10-30 flowers. These clusters appear in autumn and may continue blooming into winter in warmer climates. The flowers, which resemble those of blueberries, persist on the plant for about a year before forming fruits.
The stem of strawberry tree is characterized by its distinctive reddish-brown color, exhibiting a smooth and slightly rough texture. This stem typically measures around 0.4 to 0.8 inches (1 to 2 cm) in diameter, supporting a branching pattern that is irregular and somewhat gnarled. It features shallow vertical fissures that develop with age, adding to its unique appearance. These stems are sturdy and provide a robust framework for the plant, aiding in its identification.
The fruit of strawberry tree manifests as small, roughly 1/2-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) diameter berries, boasting a distinctive red hue and a rough-textured surface reminiscent of strawberries. Maturing over a 12-month period, these fruits are uniquely present on the branches alongside flowers, showcasing the tree's simultaneous flowering and fruiting stages. The berries' moist consistency can lead to the creation of a messy environment when they fall upon hardscaped areas.
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Scientific Classification of Strawberry tree
