The Strawberry Tree, or Arbutus unedo, is a versatile evergreen tree or large shrub that adds year-round interest to the garden. Its glossy, dark green leaves form a dense canopy, while its red-brown peeling bark provides unique textural contrast. In autumn and winter, Arbutus bears small, bell-shaped white or pale pink flowers that attract pollinators, alongside bright red-orange fruits that resemble strawberries. These fruits, though edible, are more often admired for their ornamental charm. The combination of flowers and fruit appearing simultaneously makes the Strawberry Tree a standout feature in any landscape.
Tolerant of poor soils and coastal conditions, Arbutus is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a hardy, low-maintenance addition that offers both beauty and biodiversity. It can be grown as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or even as a container plant on a sunny patio.