unedo

Arbutus unedo, commonly known as the strawberry tree or unedo, is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the family Ericaceae. Native to the Mediterranean region, it occurs from parts of southwestern Europe through the central and eastern Mediterranean to North Africa and western Asia. It typically grows to 2–6 meters tall, occasionally higher, and has a dense, spreading habit with smooth, reddish-brown bark that peels in thin sheets. The leaves are evergreen, glossy, and 3–9 centimeters long. In autumn to winter, the plant bears clusters of urn-shaped flowers that are white to pink. After flowering, rounded fruits 1–2 centimeters in diameter develop; the fruit is rough-textured and changes from green to red-orange as it ripens.

The fruit is edible but dry and bland with a grainy texture. It is eaten fresh in some regions and used in jams, jellies, liqueurs, or desserts in others. The plant is valued for ornamental purposes due to its year-round foliage, winter flowers, and colorful fruit, making it a common feature in gardens and parks in suitable climates.

Cultivation and habitat requirements include full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and can tolerate coastal conditions, but extreme cold can limit growth in susceptible areas. Propagation is typically by seed or semi-ripe cuttings, and the plant is sometimes grafted onto suitable rootstocks to improve hardiness.

Ecologically, flowers attract pollinators, and birds often disperse the mature fruit. Arbutus unedo is popular in Mediterranean-oriented landscapes and is grown in temperate regions where conditions resemble its native climate.