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
beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThe so called landscaper I hired a few years back moved mine from the corner of the house to close to the front door. It has had pitiful blooms every since. I hoped the pouting was over with this year, but it's not. I'm not sure what I need to do to bring it back to its former beauty. Mary
ReplyDeletequite lovely!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful. I love peonies..have several that are swelling with buds now. Just planted some Itoh peonies and am awaiting their debut. Stunning photo. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteOh that is lovely! I have a similar colored one that is a single. It is blooming and so pretty right now. I bet yours is gorgeous when the whole bunch is blooming.
ReplyDeleteDebbie