ExplorePlants

strawberry tree

Arbutus unedo

The strawberry tree is a special tree that grows sweet, red fruits that look like strawberries! It has beautiful, white flowers and shiny green leaves, making it a lovely addition to gardens.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The strawberry tree has glossy, dark green evergreen leaves and attractive reddish-brown bark that peels in strips. It simultaneously displays delicate white to pinkish bell-shaped flowers and bright red, bumpy, strawberry-like fruits.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderEricalesFamilyEricaceaeGenusArbutus
strawberry tree
aromatic trait badgeflowering trait badgebroadleaf_tree trait badgeevergreen trait badge
strawberry tree

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Ancient Romans believed its fruit could ward off evil spirits and fevers!

Despite its name, it's not related to actual strawberries at all, belonging to the heath family!

Its fruits take a whole year to ripen, often appearing alongside new flowers on the same branch!

The dense wood was traditionally used to make charcoal and tools, even walking sticks!

Special abilities

Ability

Fire Rescuer

The strawberry tree has thick, corky bark that protects it from wildfires, allowing it to resprout afterwards.

Ability

Water Saver

It has tough, leathery leaves that help it conserve water, allowing it to thrive in dry conditions.

Ability

Seasonal Synchrony

The strawberry tree blooms and ripens fruit simultaneously, offering continuous food for wildlife.

Measurements & details

Height
500-1500 cm
Spread
400-800 cm
Flower Size
0.5-1 cm
Bloom Season
Fall-winter
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

honey bee

Apis mellifera

collects nectar from its flowers

Traits

Also known as

ArbutusKillarney Strawberry Tree

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always ask an adult before trying any fruit from a tree.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is strawberry tree?

500-1500 cm

How wide does strawberry tree spread?

400-800 cm

How big are the flowers on strawberry tree?

0.5-1 cm

When does strawberry tree bloom?

Fall-winter

Is strawberry tree edible?

Yes

Is strawberry tree toxic?

None

What is strawberry tree's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is strawberry tree pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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