Arbutus andrachne aka Greek Strawberry Tree

Arbutus andrachne is known as the Grecian strawberry tree. It belongs to the heath family, Ericaceae. Its native range spans the eastern Mediterranean to northern Iraq. Records also include Crimea, Georgia, and parts of southeastern Europe. It grows in evergreen scrub and on rocky slopes. These sites can become very dry in summer. It occurs on limestone, serpentine, and igneous rock.

This evergreen forms a large shrub or short-trunked tree. Its branches spread, and its bark adds interest. Bright green leaves keep the plant in view year-round. Garden plants reach about 26–39 feet [8–12 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. The RHS gives 20–50 years as the time to maturity. Cream flowers have a bell shape. They develop into berries that turn orange-red when ripe. Each fruit measures about 0.6 inches across.

Grow it in deep, fertile soil with good drainage. The RHS recommends moist soil, despite its dry summer habitat. It accepts clay, loam, and sand. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. Choose full sun or partial shade in a sheltered spot. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H4. This covers minimum temperatures of about −10 to −5°C. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10. These ratings use different systems and should remain separate.

Its form suits gardens where a tree provides a strong focal point. The RHS suggests city gardens and courtyards. Plants For A Future also lists woodland edges and hedges. Plants tolerate some trimming when grown as a hedge. The wood is hard and has a close grain. Grow new plants from seed or semi-ripe cuttings. Take those cuttings in late summer. Aphids may attack the plant. Arbutus leaf spot and honey fungus are other possible problems.

The fruit has food uses, but the safety evidence conflicts. Plants For A Future describes raw and cooked fruit as edible. It reports juicy flesh with a sweet but mild taste. Preserves offer one use for the crop. The RHS also mentions fruit use in jams and liqueurs. Yet its safety section warns people and pets against eating it. That section also advises gloves and other protection when handling. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. These sources do not support an unqualified claim of safety.