Arbutus unedo 'Quercifolia'

RHS Plant Profile
strawberry tree 'Quercifolia'
Trees

An evergreen tree, up to around 8m high, with rough, red-brown bark, and glossy green leaves with irregular, almost lobed edges, somewhat resembling oak leaves. Drooping sprays of white, urn-shaped flowers with a hint of pink are produced in autumn, followed by warty fruits that ripen to red the following autumn alongside the new flowers. Whilst the fruits are edible and used to make jams and liqueurs in some countries, they are generally grown for ornamental purposes only in the UK

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well drained soil in full sun, plants dislike shade and waterlogging. Young plants may need winter protection in areas prone to hard frosts. Some drought tolerance once established

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wildlife gardens

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