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
Wasn't it a fantastic weekend? I gardened both days and got so much done. Your photos are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteYou have so much more going on in your garden already Phillip but my peonies are at about the same stage. They are creeping out into the world. The anticipation is invigorating. I want to get out there and start pulling weeds. ... What did I just type??? ha... Love your bee/bug hive. The next thing we know you will have a bee hive and be selling honey.
ReplyDeleteYou capture a perfect moment perfectly!
ReplyDeleteHooray for the mason bee condo. They will be thanking you for years to come.