Canary Island Strawberry Tree
arbutus canariensis
Also known as: ["Canary Strawberry Tree"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree native to the Canary Islands, known for its distinctive red bark and strawberry-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Arbutus |
| Botanical Name: | Arbutus canariensis |
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":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
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 if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, or filtered sunlight in hotter regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, slightly acidic soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged frost.
Monitor temperature extremes; use protective coverings; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid salt buildup; water before applying fertilizer; stop feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable 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, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote airflow and shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; wilting or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or leaf drop; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter; avoid planting in frost-prone areas; ensure good soil drainage to prevent cold root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; dehydration may occur.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArbutus canariensis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicArbutus canariensis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicArbutus canariensis is not considered toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Arbutus canariensis edible?
A: The fruit is edible but often tart and not commonly consumed.
Q: Does this tree require full sun?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: How fast does Arbutus canariensis grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching 15-20 feet in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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