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
Oh the fun of opening plant packages. Enjoy the decisions of where to plant!
ReplyDeleteMy kind of gardener. Just buy what catches your eye and THEN find a place for them. :) Have fun. Happy Easter.
ReplyDeleteI've wanted to order from them for such a long time, but I am the biggest procrastinator when it comes buying bulbs. I overthink them!
ReplyDeleteSpring planting is so much fun. I'm waiting for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens plant sale next weekend to buy most of my plants.
ReplyDeleteI'm getting a package from Bluestone this week, can't wait. I buy most of my bulbs from B&B. I have the canna I could have given you a piece. Mary
ReplyDeleteYes, getting anything garden related is so much fun!
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