Arbutus unedo 'Compacta'

Smaller than the other strawberry trees listed here, this is an attractive evergreen shrub with masses of creamy white flowers in late summer or early autumn.

The flowers are followed by red, edible, strawberry-like fruit. These ornamental fruit can take up to a year to ripen fully. The flowers are very popular with insects and in particular, butterflies.

When established, Arbutus unedo 'Compacta' will develop a fantastic, peeling, mahogany coloured bark. A slow growing shrub and not for instant gratification! Can be grown well in a large container.

• Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Any well drained, fertile soil. Arbutus unedo 'Compacta' is reasonably tolerant of chalky soils but will grow better in slightly acidic conditions.
• Hardiness: Reasonably hard & wind tolerant in coastal areas but prefers some shelter in cold gardens.
• Flowering Period: September - November.
• Flower Colour: Creamy white
• Rate of Growth: Slow.
• Habit: Medium sized or eventually large rounded, densely branching shrub.
  • Height: up to 2.5 m (8 ft)
  • Spread: 2.5 m (8 ft)

• Notes: Arbutus unedo 'Compacta' is reasonably tolerant of atmospheric pollution and a good choice for urban gardens.