Arbutus unedo Atlantic - Strawberry Tree

The 'Atlantic' Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo) is a variety with a compact habit, evergreen and decorative foliage. Sometimes called the 'strawberry tree', this bush produces large red fruits in autumn. The flowering in the form of white bells appears in the previous autumn. This variety can be grown in a pot. Planting in spring or autumn, harvest from September to November.

Originally from the Mediterranean, the Strawberry Tree is a slow-growing evergreen and decorative bush. The 'Atlantic' variety, obtained by the French nurseryman Minier, has a compact habit, reaching 2m (6ft 7in) in height and 1.50m (4ft 11in) in width. Hardy up to -10°C (14 °F), the Strawberry Tree produces twisted branches with reddish-brown bark. The elliptical leaves, 6 to 9cm (2.4 to 3.5in) long, are slightly toothed on the edges, dark green, shiny on the upper side.

Flowering takes place from the end of August, in the form of white bells resembling those of lily of the valley. One year later, these honey-scented flowers will have produced fruits of 3 to 4cm (1.2 to 1.6in) in diameter, yellow-orange in colour and then red when ripe. Thus, in autumn, this shrub will simultaneously bear flowers and fruits. The strawberry-like fruits have a granular skin and a yellow flesh containing many small seeds. They are harvested when they are red and soft to the touch. These fruits with a tangy and sweet taste are consumed cooked, in jams, jellies or liqueurs.

In the garden, the Strawberry Tree is planted in isolation, as a hedge or in a container. This variety is particularly well suited for small spaces thanks to its compact habit.