Arbutus unedo

Ericaceae

Irish Strawberry Tree

Small to medium evergreen tree, grows to 6m tall, with a dense spreading crown and dark green leathery leaves. Usually has a single main trunk but is sometimes multi-trunked with attractive smooth reddish and flaking bark. Bears attractive yellow-orange fruits.

Uses

Attractive specimen tree for small gardens; attractive bark and strawberry-like fruits are the main features.

Culture

Adaptable small tree; prefers full sun and well-drained, neutral to acid soil. Tolerates cold conditions and heavy frost. Can be pruned to keep it compact.

Propagation

Cuttings, aerial layering, seeds.

Cultivars

Several available including:

'Compacta': Lovely 3m tall dense shrub with interest in the leaves, bark and fruit.

'Elfin King': Small variety to 3m tall.

 

Plant Health

Scale, thrip, arbutus leaf spot.

More info

Video: ‘Identifying Trees and Shrubs’ produced by Australian Correspondence Schools is available through http://www.acsgarden.com/shop/ Landscape Design and Home Garden Expert courses are available through Australian Correspondence Schools, see www.acs.edu.au/hort

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