ARBUTUS UNEDO

Botanical Name: Arbutus unedo
Common Names: Strawberry Tree, Madroño
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates a variety of substrates including rocky and slightly acidic soils
Water Needs: Low once established; moderately drought-tolerant
Foliage: Evergreen, glossy dark green leaves with serrated edges; dense and bushy appearance
Flowers: Clusters of small, bell-shaped white to pink flowers in fall and winter
Fruit: Round, red, edible fruits resembling strawberries; ripen in winter
Growth Rate: Moderate

Uses:

Ornamental Plant:
Arbutus unedo is prized for its year-round interest—glossy foliage, delicate flowers, and bright, berry-like fruit—making it a standout in ornamental and Mediterranean-style gardens.

Edible Landscaping:
Its colorful fruits are not only ornamental but also edible, lending it value in both decorative and food-producing landscapes.

Hedge or Small Tree:
Can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, ideal for screens, borders, or as a focal point in garden designs.

Benefits:

Drought Tolerance:
Once established, it requires minimal irrigation and performs well in dry-summer climates.

Low Maintenance:
Pest-resistant and hardy, needing only light pruning to maintain shape.

Ecological Contribution:
Flowers provide nectar for bees and pollinators; fruits attract birds and other wildlife.

Multi-Season Appeal:
Attractive in every season with evergreen foliage, winter flowers, and ornamental fruit.

Cold Hardy:
Tolerates light frost and performs well in Mediterranean and temperate climates.

Arbutus unedo is a versatile, evergreen shrub or small tree that brings color, texture, and ecological value to water-wise and Mediterranean gardens. With its edible fruits and ornamental charm, it’s a resilient and attractive addition to sustainable landscapes.