Arbutus menziesii
madrona
A shrubby evergreen tree with peeling cinnamon-brown bark and glossy dark green leaves, whitish beneath. White, urn-shaped flowers in upright panicles in early summer appear in profusion and are followed by small orange-red fruits which ripen the following year
Synonyms
Arbutus procera Douglas non Sol.
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Neutral, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red Brown | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Brown | White | Green | |
| Autumn | Red Brown | Green | Orange Red | |
| Winter | Red Brown | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- 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
- NW United States
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from cold winds
Propagation
Propagate by seed and 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 keep pruning 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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