Strawberry Tree
arbutus unedo
Also known as: ["Cedar of Portugal","Killarney Tree"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub native to the Mediterranean region, notable for its distinctive red bark and edible fruits that resemble strawberries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Arbutus |
| Botanical Name: | Arbutus unedo |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (e.g., loam 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: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shaping or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–9. Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective removal of dead, diseased, or crossing branches; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage fruiting. Light pruning is usually sufficient.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted. Arbutus unedo is generally slow-growing and does not require frequent repotting.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid pooling. Early morning or late evening is ideal to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in extreme heat; stunted growth or dieback in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows; young plants are more susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in freezing temperatures; plant in a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature fruit drop; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after application; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply lightly around the root zone, avoiding direct contact with stems. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume the berries of Arbutus unedo. The tannins in the berries can irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Arbutus unedo can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested in significant amounts. The tannins present in the berries may lead to digestive irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicArbutus unedo, commonly known as the strawberry tree, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large quantities. The berries are generally considered edible but may lead to discomfort in some individuals due to their high tannin content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of the Strawberry Tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet, slightly tart flavor, though it is not widely cultivated for commercial use.
Q: How fast does the Strawberry Tree grow?
A: It is a moderately slow-growing tree, typically reaching heights of 10-15 feet over several years.
Q: Does the Strawberry Tree require full sun?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained, acidic soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
