[043] Arbutus unedo, Strawberry Tree
Introduction
Arbutus unedo, the Strawberry Tree, is a small evergreen tree that produces edible fruits that look fairly similar to strawberries
Because it grows in parts of Ireland, it is also known as the Irish Strawberry Tree or Cain or Cane Apple (from the Irish name Caithne.)
It is not a close relative of the strawberry.
Taxonomy
Kingdom – Plants
Division – Vascular Plants
Class – Angiosperms (Flowering Plants)
Order – Ericales
Family – Ericaceae (Heathers)
Genus – Arbutus
Scientific Name – Arbutus unedo
Name
Arbutus is the Latin name of this tree, of which Pliny the Elder (23-79 AD) said, ‘Unum tanto edo,’ meaning ‘I eat only one.’ It is not clear why he said this.
Description
It is an evergreen tree or shrub which is attractive in itself with dark leaves and dark red-brown trunk and branches.
The next picture shows the leaves, red-brown branches and some developing fruit.
The small, white flowers come out in autumn just as the fruit from the previous year is maturing.
The fruit gradually develops and eventually turns a bright red, looking very similar to strawberries.
Habitat and use
The natural range of Arbutus unedo is the Mediterranean and the Iberian Peninsula with two isolated areas in Ireland. It has been cultivated for hundreds of years.
It is always fascinating to read about herbal medicine but in folk medicine the leaves of the Strawberry Tree have been used as an astringent, diuretic, antiseptic, intoxicant and tonic and to treat rheumatism, hypertension and diabetes.
The fruits are edible but very difficult to transport because they bruise easily. They are used for jam, marmalade, yoghurt and alcoholic beverages.
Other Notes
I have been introduced to many new species of tree in Pittville Park, Cheltenham, and for most of them I have seen a few more round the town later. But I haven’t found another Strawberry Tree yet.
See also
There are no similar species in Britain.
The Species of Britain 