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Description
Arbutus Unedo, commonly known as the Strawberry Tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows up to 10 meters tall. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is a member of the Ericaceae family. The Strawberry Tree bears edible fruit that is similar in appearance to strawberries but has a bland, mealy taste. The tree is also valued for its ornamental qualities, with its attractive bark, glossy foliage, and showy flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arbutus |
Appearance
The Strawberry Tree has a distinctive appearance with its smooth, reddish-brown bark and dark green, leathery leaves that are up to 10 cm long. The tree produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that are white or pink in color and bloom in the fall. The fruit of the Strawberry Tree is a round, fleshy berry that is initially green but turns bright red and is ripe in the winter. The fruit has a mealy texture and a mildly sweet taste.
Care Guide
Arbutus Unedo is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The tree should be watered regularly during the growing season but can tolerate some drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth. The Strawberry Tree prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Strawberry Tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Other potential issues include scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew, which can be controlled with the appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Arbutus Unedo is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in coastal areas and mountainous regions. The tree is also cultivated in other regions for its ornamental qualities and fruit.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Strawberry Tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible, but it has a bland, mealy taste.
Q: Can the Strawberry Tree tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the tree can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Q: Does the Strawberry Tree require fertilizer?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth.
Q: What type of soil does the Strawberry Tree prefer?
A: The Strawberry Tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Related Plants
- Arbutus Menziesii (Pacific Madrone)
- Arbutus x Marina (Marina Strawberry Tree)
- Arbutus Canariensis (Canary Island Strawberry Tree)
References
- “Arbutus Unedo – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c755. Accessed 29 Aug. 2021.
- “Strawberry Tree.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10111/arbutus-unedo/details. Accessed 29 Aug. 2021.
- “Arbutus Unedo.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp117. Accessed 29 Aug. 2021.
