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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

Other common names
madrone
madroño
see moreMenzies' strawberry tree
tall strawberry tree
Synonyms
Arbutus procera Douglas non Sol.

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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
H4
Botanical 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

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