Strawberry Tree: How to Care for a Strawberry Tree
Everyone is aware of the definitions of a strawberry and a tree, but what exactly is a strawberry tree? Information about strawberry trees claims that this is a pretty little ornamental evergreen with beautiful flowers and fruit that resembles strawberries. Continue reading for advice on taking care of and growing a strawberry tree.
A strawberry tree: what is it?
The strawberry tree, or Arbutus unedo, is a pretty little tree or shrub that adds a lot of decoration to your yard. It is related to the madrone tree, and in some areas it even goes by the same common name. This plant can be grown as a specimen tree or as a multi-trunked shrub in a hedge by pruning it to a single trunk.
Planting Trees of Strawberry
You’ll discover that strawberry trees have a lot of fun characteristics if you start growing them. It’s appealing when branches and trunks shed their bark. As the trees get older, their deep reddish brown color becomes more gnarly. The oval-shaped leaves have a sharp edge. The petiole stems that hold them to the branches are bright red, and they are a shiny dark green color. The tree bears many clusters of small white flowers. When pollinated by bees, they hang like bells at the tips of the branches and yield fruit the following year that resembles strawberries. Fruits and flowers are both visually appealing and decorative. Sadly, data on strawberry trees indicates that, although edible, the fruit tastes more like a pear than a berry. Thus, do not plant strawberry trees in the hopes of harvesting actual strawberries. Conversely, try the fruit to see if you enjoy it. Hold off until it ripens and falls off the tree. Alternatively, when it starts to get a little squishy, pick it off the tree.
Growing a Strawberry Tree: A Guide
The best USDA zones for growing strawberry trees are 8b through 11. Choose a spot with well-draining soil and plant the trees in either full or partial sun. Sand or loam both function well. It can grow in soil that is alkaline or acidic. Regular irrigation is necessary for strawberry tree care, particularly in the initial years following planting. Once established, the tree can withstand some drought, and you won’t have to worry about its roots rupturing cement or sewers.
