This long lived slow growing small tree has multiple trunks with pink flaky bark and spreading branches that form a rounded crown. It has glossy dark green elliptical leaves and the urn-shaped pinkish flowers appear in a cluster during autumn.

Hardiness zones 7 to 10

Arbutus unedo is naturally found from southern Ireland to the Mediterranean coast in Europe growing in rocky habitats on the coast and in the lower mountains. It prefers well drained fertile moist soil in a sunny to semi shaded position and is frost hardy but drought tender. 

The Irish Strawberry Tree is grown for its autumn flowers and its irregular rounded crown. It is planted in parks and gardens along shrub borders for screening or as a lawn specimen. It established in 3 to 5 years and has attractive polished tan bark. It is pollution tolerant and requires little maintenance once established. ID 323

Arbutus (AR-bu-tus) unedo (EW-nee-do)

 Arbutus”: ancient Latin name for this plant (possibly from Celtic arboise - rough fruit); ‘unedo’: one to eat (ie edible).

Ericaceae (er-ek-AY-see-ee)
Bilberries, Blueberries,Cranberies, Heathers, Heaths, Rhododendrons, Wintergreens