Set Of 4 Strawberry Tree - Arbutus unedo - Height 15cm - 9cm pot

Bring a Mediterranean feel to your garden or patio with the Arbutus unedo, also known as the strawberry tree. This evergreen, rounded shrub is a striking ornamental plant that both flowers and bears fruit in autumn. The soft pink, bell-shaped flowers appear in October and November, whilst the decorative, strawberry-like fruits — which only ripen a year after flowering — add a warm red accent to the plant. This means you can enjoy both flowers and fruits at the same time in autumn.

The fruits are edible and have a slightly sweet-and-sour taste, similar to currants. They are suitable for eating fresh in small quantities or for use in jam, liqueurs or even wine. This variety is a compact one that reaches a height of around 1.5 metres after ten years, making it perfect for smaller gardens, patios or as a container plant. The plant thrives in dry, poor soil and a sunny, sheltered spot.

Although the strawberry tree is moderately hardy (down to around -12 to -15 °C), it thrives surprisingly well in our climate when planted in well-drained soil — in some nurseries, it has even been growing for more than 25 years. Protect young plants during severe frosts.

Plus points:

• Flowers and fruit at the same time in autumn

• Compact and suitable for pots or small gardens

• Both decorative and edible

• Evergreen

• Low maintenance