Strawberry tree - (Arbutus unedo)

The strawberry tree is one of the most sought-after shrub species for ornamental purposes: being an evergreen whose blooming season coincides with the ripening of its fruit (late autumn) makes it particularly appreciated.

Mature plants develop a gnarled appearance, with dark brown, deeply furrowed bark. In the wild, it is one of the primary species of the Mediterranean maquis and Mediterranean forest. Highly adaptable to various soil types, it nevertheless prefers acidic to sub-acidic soils and thrives best in partial shade. It is considered a symbol of Italy, as it simultaneously displays the green of its leaves, the white of its flowers, and the red of its fruit.