Strawberry Tree is an attractive specimen that stands out with its evergreen foliage and also grows tasty fruits!
The Strawberry Tree, also known as Arbutus unedo, is a small evergreen tree or shrub that is native to the Mediterranean region. This tree is widely grown for its ornamental value and its edible fruit. If you fancy having it in your garden, then here are all the details!
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Strawberry Tree Plant Profile
The Strawberry Tree is a slow-growing tree that can reach a height of up to 8-20 feet. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, and its flowers are small, white or pink, and urn-shaped.
The fruit of the Strawberry Tree has a sweet, slightly tart flavor and is often used to make jams, jellies, and liqueurs. It is a hardy plant that is tolerant of drought and poor soil conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can be grown in a variety of soil types.
Botanical Name: Arbutus unedo
USDA Zones: 8-11
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Propagating Strawberry Tree
There are two main methods of propagating Strawberry Trees, which are done through seed and stem cuttings.
To propagate by seed, start by collecting the fruits when they are ripe and mature. Rinse the seeds to remove any remaining pulp. Next, fill a container with a well-draining soil mix and sow the seeds. Place the container in a warm area with good light and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate in several weeks.
To propagate by cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from the end of a new shoot. Remove the lower leaves and dip the end of the cutting in the rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix. Place the container in a warm area with good light and keep the soil moist. The cuttings should root in 3-5 weeks.
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Requirements for Growing a Strawberry Tree
Sunlight
Strawberry Trees require full sun to partial shade to grow well. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. If the tree is grown in a shaded area, it may not flower or produce many fruits.
Soil
These trees prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil and can tolerate a wide range of growing mediums, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It likes well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
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Water
These trees are drought-tolerant, but they require regular watering during their first year of growth to establish their root system. Water only when the topsoil feels a little dry to the touch. Once they attain a height of 4-5 feet, these trees will take care of themselves.
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It is important not to overwater Strawberry Trees, as this can lead to root rot.
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Temperature
Strawberry Trees are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They can survive in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F).
Strawberry Tree Care
Fertilizer
Strawberry Trees do not require heavy fertilization, but they can benefit from a slow-release, balanced fertilizer 4-5 times a year when they are actively growing.
Feed the plant till it attains a height of 4-6 feet. After that, it will take care of its own.
It is best to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient burn and other issues.
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Pests and Diseases
Strawberry Trees are generally resistant to pests, but they can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
One of the most common diseases that can affect the tree is Phytophthora root rot, which is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the tree.
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Another common disease that can affect the tree is powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease and can be treated with fungicides by improving air circulation around the tree.
Harvesting Strawberry Trees
The best time to harvest Arbutus unedo, or strawberry tree, is late autumn or early winter when the fruits are ripe. The fruits are ready to pick when they are soft and easily pull away from the tree.
You can store them in a refrigerator for 5-7 days.
