Strawberry tree: How to grow and care for it?

First things first. Don’t confuse a strawberry tree with strawberries of the genus Fragaria. Arbutus Unedo or the strawberry tree is a plant that produces spherical, vividly coloured fruits that don’t taste like strawberries but are delicate, fragrant blossoms instead. The lustrous, black, oblong leaves are 2 to 4 inches long. Bell-shaped white or pink flowers that are produced by the tree are grouped together and reach maturity in the fall along with the fruit. 

The wonderful colourful bark and twisted branches make this a lovely decorative tree and, when left as a shrub, can develop into a lush, thick dome form, tying everything together. Expect this shrub to develop at a slow to moderate rate and plant additional trees in the fall.

 

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Strawberry tree: Key facts

Species Name	Strawberry tree
Family Name	Ericaceae
Synonyms	Killarney strawberry tree, Irish strawberry tree
Height	8-12 feet tall
Botanical name	Arbutus Unedo
Native area	Western Europe and Mediterranean region
Plant Type	Shrub, evergreen
Environmental Impact	Positive
Maintenance	Low
Blooming time	Fall

 

Strawberry tree: Physical description

The Arbutus Unedo is an evergreen shrub, native to the Mediterranean region. It typically grows to a height of 6-10 metres (20-30 feet). The tree has a broad, rounded crown, and its bark is typically a reddish-brown colour that peels off in thin layers. 

The leaves of the strawberry tree are glossy and dark green, and they are oblong or oval in shape. The tree produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that are typically pink or white in colour. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that resemble strawberries in size and colour, although they are not related to true strawberries. The fruit is edible and has a sweet, slightly tart flavour.

 

Strawberry tree: Types

“Elfin King“: Pick the little “Elfin King” cultivar if you don’t want to bother with picking up a lot of fallen fruit. Of course, the trade-off is that it produces fewer eye-catching fruits.

‘Rubra’: The bright pink blossoms on this strawberry tree variety are stunning.

Compacta: Because it only reaches heights of 8 to 12 feet, this small strawberry tree is well-liked.

“Oktoberfest”: it is a different miniature strawberry tree that grows well in containers.

 

Strawberry tree: Muntingia Calabura versus Arbutus Unedo

Despite being two distinct species, Arbutus Unedo and Muntingia Calabura share the common name “strawberry tree.” To prevent confusion, the Muntingia Calabura is also known as the strawberry tree and the Jamaican cherry. It develops more quickly than the Arbutus Unedo. The fruit of the Jamaican cherry tree has a cotton candy-like flavour.

 

Strawberry tree: How to grow it? 

Strawberry tree propagation

A strawberry tree may be propagated through layering and cuttings. Layering may be the most effective method because it takes time for strawberry tree seedlings to develop to the point where they can be planted outside. The optimal time to collect strawberry tree cuttings with sterile garden equipment is around July. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and kept in strong light until they are tough enough to be planted outside.

Growing strawberry trees from seeds

Birds that eat the berries distribute the seeds from the fruit of the strawberry tree. When you pick the fruits, collect the seeds and stratify them if you wish to create a strawberry tree from seed. Before you have a plant big enough to place in the ground outside, it can take a while.

Strawberry tree: When to plant?

You only need to pick a time to plant the strawberry tree when there is no risk of frost because it is not a particularly fussy plant. Plant this tree either in the spring after the risk of frost has passed or in the early fall before the first frost.

Strawberry tree: Choosing a planting location

Pick an acidic to slightly alkaline loamy, sandy, or clay region that is sunny and well-drained. The tree is tolerant to partially shaded locations. Once a tree is established, it can resist some wind and drought but not extreme weather, especially while it is young. Despite the presence of salt runoff or salt spray, strawberry trees may thrive. When planted in urban settings, alongside roadways and highways, this strawberry tree can also flourish.

Strawberry tree: Dimensions, depth and assistance

Depending on the cultivar you choose, the Arbutus Unedo is regarded as being small to medium in size, so if you intend to plant multiple trees or make a hedge with it, space them 20 to 35 feet apart. Until they are more established and resilient, younger trees may require a stake for support.

Growing strawberry trees in pots: Instructions

The miniature strawberry trees “Elfin King,” “Oktoberfest,” and “Compacta” are all excellent for growing in pots on a patio in strong sunshine and away from the wind. To allow for root growth, use a well-draining pot of any material that is between 14 and 24 inches in diameter and around 14 inches deep. Consider placing the potted plant on casters, which will elevate it off the ground to aid with drainage and lessen the weight of the container and tree.

 

Strawberry tree: Care tips

Although the species may grow as tall as 35 feet under the correct circumstances, most strawberry tree cultivars in the United States mature around 8 to 12 feet tall and broad. Its canopy has a spherical or dome-like appearance.

The fruits are edible; however, they are often not pleasant when they are fresh. They may also be used to create the Portuguese liqueur medronho, as well as jams and jellies.

Strawberry tree: Sunlight requirements

The strawberry tree prefers sunlight over shade. It needs six hours every day of uninterrupted, direct sunlight to flourish.

Strawberry tree: Soil requirements

This tree thrives in acidic soil, similar to other ericaceous plants. It can also stand a pH that is neutral. If necessary, you can increase the acidity of your soil.

Strawberry tree: Water requirements

For the first year, it’s crucial to water often so that the tree can develop sturdy roots. The strawberry tree can even flourish in saline environments and is thought to become more drought-resistant as it ages. To equal the number of inches in the diameter of the trunk, let 1 inch of water every week.

Strawberry tree: Humidity and temperature requirements

The majority of temperatures and humidity levels are tolerable for strawberry trees. The tree won’t survive, nevertheless, in places that are very humid.

Strawberry tree: Fertiliser requirements

To shield the tree’s base from the sun’s intense heat in the summer and freezing temperatures in the winter, add about 3 inches of mulch. Additionally, this will act as a natural, slow-release fertiliser.

Strawberry tree: Pruning requirements

Unless branches are growing in the incorrect direction or there are dead, diseased, or dying branches, this tree often does not require pruning. If pruning is something you want to undertake, wait until late winter or early spring to accomplish it. Additionally, you may teach the shrub to resemble a tree more by giving it a single trunk.

Strawberry tree: Overwintering

Younger trees may require protective burlap coverings during cold snaps and frosts to shield their blossoms and fruit from harm. Additionally, covers help shield young trees from chilly winds.

 

Strawberry tree: Harvesting strawberries

In the late fall or early winter, usually in November or December, the berries on a strawberry tree are ready for picking. The berries should be harvested when their skins are intensely red and somewhat tender to the touch.

 

Strawberry tree: Pest and diseases

Many common plant diseases, such as Annosus root rot disease, anthracnose, leaf spots, leaf galls, phytophthora (a fungus), sudden oak mortality, and twig dieback, can harm strawberry trees.

Aphids, flatheaded borers, leafminers, scale, thrips, and Western tent caterpillars are typical pests that might harm your strawberry bush (Malacosoma Californicum).

 

Strawberry tree: Uses

The strawberry tree (Arbutus Unedo) is an evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is grown for its attractive red flowers, which bloom in the fall, and its small, edible berries, which resemble wild strawberries in appearance but are not as flavorful. 

The strawberry tree is also grown for its ornamental value, as it has a beautiful form and can be used as a hedge or specimen plant in landscaping. In addition, the fruit of the strawberry tree is sometimes used to make liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages.

 

Strawberry tree: Toxicity

The strawberry tree (Arbutus Unedo) is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. However, the fruit of the strawberry tree is not highly edible due to its sour taste and tough skin. The fruit is also known to cause digestive upset in some people, so it is best to consume it in moderation.

 

FAQs

Is it simple to cultivate the Arbutus Unedo tree?

The strawberry tree is not picky, especially after it has been established and can flourish independently. Thus the answer is yes; it is simple to cultivate. One of the simpler decorative trees to grow in your yard, your only responsibility will be to keep an eye out for pests and diseases.

Is the fruit of Arbutus Unedo edible?

The fruits of the strawberry tree are edible. However, when new, they can have a rough surface texture, a mushy inside, and a subdued semi-sweet flavour. But other individuals enjoy cooking the berries and using them in jams and preserves.

Are animals drawn to Arbutus Unedo?

Birds adore the fruit of Arbutus Unedo and appreciate the shelter this large tree offers. Because its blossoms are loaded with nectar and pollen, the strawberry tree also draws bees, butterflies, and birds, including hummingbirds.