The Strawberry Tree (Arbutus Unedo), also known as the Irish Strawberry Tree or Killarney Strawberry Tree, is a remarkable evergreen tree that offers both ornamental beauty and edible fruit. Native to the Mediterranean and Western Europe, this tree can grow up to 15-30 feet, making it a perfect addition to gardens, landscapes, or even large containers. Its glossy, dark green leaves, fragrant white bell-shaped flowers, and vibrant red berries create a stunning display year-round.
The Strawberry Tree thrives in USDA zones 7-11 and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay and drought-prone areas, making it highly adaptable. It blooms in the fall with honey-scented flowers that attract pollinators, including honeybees. The edible fruit matures over the course of a year, changing colors from green to yellow, peach, and finally a deep red, providing a vibrant contrast with the white flowers. The red, knobby fruit, about 1 inch in diameter, is not only visually appealing but also sweet and fig-like in taste, making it perfect for eating fresh or using in jams, desserts, and even liqueurs.
Plant your seeds outdoors in the fall, or cold stratify them indoors for a successful spring planting. With proper care, the Strawberry Tree will be a centerpiece of your garden, offering a unique combination of beauty and bounty.
Key Features:
- Plant Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree
- Condition: 25 fresh seeds, ready for planting
- Mature Size: 15-30 feet in height
- Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun to part shade, tolerant of various soil types
- USDA Zones: 7-11
- Bloom Time: Fall
- Harvest: Red berries ready in November-December
- Special Features: Edible fruit, fragrant white flowers, adaptable to dry or clay soils
Benefits:
- Ornamental Value: The Strawberry Tree adds year-round beauty to any garden with its glossy leaves, white flowers, and vibrant red fruit.
- Edible Berries: The sweet, fig-like berries can be enjoyed fresh or used in culinary creations like jams, desserts, and drinks.
- Pollinator Friendly: The honey-scented flowers are a favorite of honeybees, making this tree ideal for pollinator gardens.
- Drought Tolerant: This tree is highly adaptable and can thrive in dry or clay soils, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens.
- Versatile Planting: Suitable for use as a feature tree in landscapes, grown in containers, or added to edible gardens.
FAQs:
- How do I plant Strawberry Tree seeds?
You can sow the seeds outdoors in the fall or cold stratify them indoors before spring planting. Ensure the seeds are in well-draining soil and placed in a sunny to partly shaded location. - When will the Strawberry Tree produce fruit?
The fruit takes about a year to mature, starting in green and transitioning through yellow and pink before turning red. You can expect ripe berries between November and December. - What kind of soil does the Strawberry Tree prefer?
The Strawberry Tree is highly adaptable and thrives in a variety of soil types, including average, dry, or clay soils. It prefers well-draining soil for optimal growth. - Can the Strawberry Tree be grown in containers?
Yes! The Strawberry Tree can be grown in large containers, making it a great option for patios, terraces, or small gardens. - Is the fruit of the Strawberry Tree edible?
Absolutely! The fruit is edible, with a sweet, fig-like taste, and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, desserts, and beverages.
Shop now and transform your garden:
Enhance your garden with the Strawberry Tree, a unique and beautiful tree that offers both ornamental appeal and delicious edible fruit. Order today for year-round beauty and bounty in your garden! Don’t miss the chance to grow this versatile, easy-care tree. Shop now and add the Strawberry Tree to your collection before it’s gone!
Jean Redmond –
Nice pack of seeds, I got some planted already
Pat –
Good seller to buy from
Anita –
Seeds were packed well, look fresh, great labeling (with pictures!), and full instructions. Included a free packet, too. I’m very happy.
Brenda Cooper –
Hope they germinate sooner than 9 months! Thanks for the seed!