Strawberry Tree
potentilla indica
Also known as: ["Arbutus indica","Strawberry Tree"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its edible red fruits and attractive flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity in dry conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems, thin out crowded branches, and shape the plant to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris, disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, and allow excess water to drain to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop buds.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla indica is not considered toxic to cats. The plant, including its fruits, is safe for feline consumption in moderation.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla indica is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant, including its fruits, is safe for canine consumption in moderation.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla indica, commonly known as the strawberry tree or mock strawberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is often cultivated for its edible fruits, which are safe for consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Potentilla indica edible?
A: Yes, the red fruits are edible and often used in jams and desserts.
Q: Does Potentilla indica require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Potentilla indica suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it is best suited for outdoor landscaping due to its tree-like growth habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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