Arbutus unedo aka Strawberry Tree

Arbutus unedo, or strawberry tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the heath family. It comes from the Mediterranean region and western Europe, including southwestern Ireland. It grows on rocky slopes, in scrub, and along woodland edges. Its range includes parts of North Africa and western Asia. The plant grows slowly and often forms several trunks. Garden plants often reach 8–15 feet [2.4–4.6 metres], with a similar spread. RHS gives a larger range, reaching 26 feet [8 metres]. Other sources report rare heights of 35 feet [10.7 metres].

You can train it to grow with one trunk. This shows the bark, which peels in rough strips. The grey-brown outer bark exposes red-brown layers beneath. Red stems hold glossy green leaves with toothed edges. The leaves have pointed tips and paler, hairless undersides. They stay on the plant through winter. The dense crown gives useful cover for a hedge or screen.

Small, urn-shaped flowers hang in clusters and have a mild scent. They are white, sometimes with a pink tint. Flowering runs from autumn into winter, though timing varies by climate. Oregon State also reports winter or early spring bloom. The round fruit takes about a year to ripen. Rough-skinned red berries can share the branches with fresh flowers. Birds and small mammals eat the fruit, while nectar draws pollinators. Deer also browse the plant.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with good drainage. Sources list sandy, loamy, and clay soils as suitable. RHS also accepts chalk and a wide range of soil pH. Established plants withstand drought and salt, but struggle in humid climates. USDA guidance places it in zones 7–10; RHS rates it H5. Shelter helps protect it from cold, drying winds. Young plants need more frost protection than mature ones. Cold can damage both flowers and fruit. Keep pruning light.

Use it in borders, coastal gardens, hedges, or as a specimen. Fallen fruit can make paving messy. Aphids, scale insects, and thrips may attack it. Reported diseases include leaf spot, root rot, rust, and honey fungus. Several sources describe ripe fruit as edible, fresh or cooked. It tastes mild and can feel gritty. Its pectin helps jams and jellies set; people also make brandy from it. RHS gives conflicting warnings against eating fruit, including for pets. Leaves have a history of herbal use. The wood supplies turned items and charcoal; several parts yield tannin.