Strawberry Tree
Since moving to Washington, I have discovered a great number of new trees. One of my favorites is the Strawberry Tree ( Arbutus unedo ). It is a four-season tree with semi-glossy evergreen leaves and lovely mahogany bark. In autumn, clusters of white flowers appear, bearing a resemblance to Lily-of-the-Valley flowers. And then there are the little fruits, which resemble strawberries that appear at the same time as the flowers. I am not sure why, but I have only seen a few fruits on ours. I don't know if birds are getting them before I see them or what happens. The fruits are said to be edible but not very tasty (to humans). This year, our tree is loaded with flowers, the most I've ever seen. Bees absolutely love it and so do the hummingbirds. The flowers usually continue to appear straight through winter, and it can be blooming even during the coldest periods of winter. Aside from the fact that I have not seen much of the colorful fruits, the major negative note is the fact tha
Great colors, and awesome picture all together.
ReplyDeleteNice!
ReplyDeleteNo words needed. That tree is a stunner! Great photo.
ReplyDeleteMarnie
What a beautiful sight.
ReplyDeleteLovely! Both the blooms and the sun are pure delight. Our spring has barely begun in Maine.
ReplyDeleteSo very lovely~
ReplyDeleteI think your photos should go to gardening magazines coverpage!
ReplyDeleteAh!!!! How lovely Phillip!
ReplyDeleteLovely!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful garden! I'm so glad I stopped by! I'll be following you so I will stop in often.
ReplyDeleteHappy Bloom Day!
Thanks so much for the "eye candy" it's Jan. 31, 2011 and gloomy-your picts are like a get-well card for my Spring Fever.
ReplyDelete