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Arbutus × andrachnoides

hybrid strawberry tree

A bushy, evergreen, shrubby tree with attractive peeling cinnamon-brown bark and glossy mid green leaves, whitish beneath. Small white urn-shaped flowers sometimes tinged pink are produced in panicles from autumn to spring. Small orange-red autumn fruits are rarely produced

Synonyms
Arbutus serratifolia
Arbutus hybrida
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
4–8 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Chalk
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Red Brown White Green
Summer Red Brown Green
Autumn Red Brown White Green Orange Red
Winter Red Brown White Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Arbutus are evergreen trees and shrubs with small, bell-shaped creamy-white or pink flowers, and red, strawberry-like fruits in autumn

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Turkey, Cyprus

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from cold winds

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 1 but pruning should be kept to a minimum

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to arbutus leaf spot and honey fungus

Get involved

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