Arbutus Unedo (Strawberry Tree)
Arbutus Unedo (Strawberry Tree)
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Arbutus Unedo (Strawberry Tree) is an attractive evergreen tree or large shrub valued for its year-round glossy green foliage, distinctive reddish-brown peeling bark, and colourful seasonal display. In autumn, clusters of delicate white to pale pink, bell-shaped flowers appear while rounded strawberry-like fruits mature from yellow-orange to bright red, often giving the plant flowers and fruit at the same time. Its naturally rounded, spreading habit makes it an excellent feature tree, screening plant, or addition to Mediterranean and coastal-style gardens.
Hardy and versatile once established, Strawberry Tree performs well in sunny, well-drained positions and develops good tolerance to dry conditions. It can also cope with coastal exposure and a range of soil types, making it a practical choice for landscapes where an attractive yet relatively low-maintenance evergreen is required. Light pruning can be used to maintain it as a dense shrub or hedge, or the lower branches can be removed to highlight its striking multi-stemmed trunk and bark.
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Mature height
Approximately 5–10 m, although size can be controlled considerably through pruning.
Mature width
Approximately 4–8 m
Spacing
Approximately 4–6 m apart when grown as individual trees or large screening specimens. For a maintained hedge, approximately 1–1.5 m apart.
Evergreen/Deciduous
Evergreen
Foliage
Dark glossy green foliage; white to pale pink flowers; yellow, orange and red fruit; reddish-brown peeling bark.
Flowering Period & Fruit Development/Harvest
Autumn to Early Winter – produces clusters of white to pale pink bell-shaped flowers, often appearing while the previous season's red fruits are ripening
Sun tolerance
Full Sun to Part Shade, with best flowering and fruiting generally achieved in a sunny position.
Maintenance
Low. Water regularly while establishing, then reduce watering once established. Requires little pruning except for shaping, removing damaged growth, or maintaining a hedge or desired tree form.
Root System
Robust root system with a deeper central root and spreading fibrous lateral roots; generally regarded as non-invasive. Avoid unnecessary disturbance around established roots.