Strawberry tree - Arbutus unedo (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Strawberry tree

Also known as: Irish strawberry tree, Arbutus tree

Arbutus unedo is an evergreen shrub or a small tree native to Europe. It is colloquially called strawberry tree because its bright red fruits somewhat resemble strawberries. The fruits of this lovely plant are very nutritious and full of sugar, which is why they are mostly used for making jams, pastries, fruit yogurts, and alcoholic beverages.

Scientific classification

Species

Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo)

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Perennial

Lifespan

1.8 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 mm to 6 mm

Flower Size

Red

Fruit Color

White, Pink

Flower Color

Brown, Red, Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Strawberry tree

Distribution of Strawberry tree

Distribution Map

Strawberry tree is native to the Mediterranean and parts of Europe, where it prefers loose woodlands, scrub areas, and rocky hillsides. It has been cultivated around the world as an ornamental, and is considered an introduced species in New Zealand and the Canary Isles.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland, scrub, rocky hillsides, limestone, sandstone

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Strawberry tree offers year-round ornamental interest to gardens due to its eye-catching blooms, foliage, and berries. This attractive tree can be trained to have a single trunk form, but grows naturally as a multi-stem, providing an unusual aesthetic. Gardeners prize this tree for being relatively disease and pest-free.

Symbolism

Power to enhance feelings of love and gratitude, romance, good fortune

Interesting Facts

The epithet in its botanical name was reportedly derived from the Latin 'unum edo' meaning 'I eat one'. This phrase refers to the lack of flavor Arbutus unedo fruit, suggesting that anyone who tries it would not eat more than one fruit.

Name Story

Strawberry tree: Although it is called this name, it has nothing to do with Fragaria ananassa. It may be due to the fruit turning strawberry colored during maturity and it has a sweet flavor. Hence, it is called a strawberry tree.

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Toxicity

Strawberry tree is toxic to both cats and dogs. All parts of the plant are harmful. Ingestion can cause symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if poisoning is suspected to ensure proper treatment and care.

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Quickly Identify Strawberry tree

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.

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Care Guide for Strawberry tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Strawberry tree, native to the Mediterranean, prefers occasional deep watering and is drought tolerant, requiring water every 1-2 weeks. It thrives outdoors, particularly in coastal climates, demonstrating resilience to salt spray and variable rainfall, making it ideal for seaside gardens.

Fertilize: Fertilize strawberry tree in spring and summer using a balanced fertilizer monthly, adapting rates based on growth and soil status. Reduce applications in fall and stop in winter. Water thoroughly post-fertilization to enhance nutrient uptake and avoid root stress while preventing over-fertilization to prevent burn.

Pruning: Strawberry tree features evergreen leaves and strawberry-like fruits. Prune early to late spring to shape and remove dead branches, ensuring air circulation. Maintain size with light annual pruning; avoid heavy pruning to reduce stress. Regularly check for pests and diseases to sustain vigor.

Propagation: Strawberry tree propagates best through grafting and layering, ideally in spring or winter. Although moderately challenging, successful propagation is signaled by new growth. Patience and caution are essential for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot strawberry tree in spring before new growth, every 2-3 years, using a large pot for its medium-sized root system. After repotting, water moderately and provide partial sunlight for acclimatization. Handle strawberry tree gently during this process.

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Images of Strawberry tree

Distribution of Strawberry tree

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Strawberry tree

Care Guide for Strawberry tree

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