This is the standard small tree form of Strawberry Tree that is so important in PNW horticulture. A good looking evergreen tree that eventually forms a rounded dense crown. To 16′ tall and a third as wide in 10 years. Excellent small patio tree- as long as you account for the prodigious autumn fruit drop. Birds and squirrels consume the fruit which is alluded to in the specific name unedo- which means ‘I eat only one.’ I know people who eat them and claim to like them. So to each their own. No denying the electric neon yellow to bright red fruit is striking September to December. White urn shaped flowers appear simultaneously with the fruits in autumn. In time the bark develops to dark brown and shredding. Native to the Mediterranean with a disjunct population in southern Ireland. Drought tolerant when established.
Arbutus unedo
Family: Ericaceae Genus: Arbutus
Plant type: Hedge or Screen, Shrub, Tree
Biomes/Growing conditions: Hot Aspects, Low Water/No Water, Oregon Coast
Sun exposure: Full Sun
USDA Hardiness zone: Zn7b 10º to 5ºF
Foliage color: Mid Green
Foliage season: Evergreen