Strawberry Tree: Mediterranean Evergreen with Red Fruit
Trees

Strawberry Tree: Mediterranean Evergreen with Red Fruit

Arbutus unedo

Growing the strawberry tree: Mediterranean evergreen with white flowers and red autumn fruit. Full sun, acidic soil, ideal for gardens and hedges.

Characteristics

Scientific nameArbutus unedo
Height3-8 m
Sunlightpieno sole
Waterbassa
Soilacido drenante
Toxicitynon tossica
Growthlenta
Temperature-12 a 35 °C
FloweringOct, Nov, Dec
IrrigationWater for the first 2-3 years after planting; once established it tolerates summer drought well in full sun.

The strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) is a Mediterranean evergreen that bears white bell-shaped flowers and edible red fruit at the same time in autumn. It grows slowly in full sun on acidic, well-drained soil, tolerating drought and salty winds. Its fruit is used for jams and liqueurs.

Flowering season

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Practical tips

Watering

Water needs: bassa — always check soil moisture before watering.

Position

Prefers pieno sole: provide the right light and rotate the plant for even growth.

Substrate

Recommended soil: acido drenante. Refresh the substrate every 1-2 years.

Leaves

Dust the leaves with a damp cloth to support photosynthesis.

Feeding

Feed during the growing season (spring-summer) and stop in winter.

FAQ

Is strawberry tree fruit edible?
Yes, the red berries of the strawberry tree are edible and sweet when fully ripe, great for jams, liqueurs and syrups. Pick them fully ripe, as unripe fruit tastes bland.
When does the strawberry tree fruit?
It flowers and fruits together in autumn: the fruit ripens about a year after flowering, so you see white flowers and red berries on the same branch.

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