Strawberry Tree Pros and Cons: Key Points to Consider Before Planting

With its striking bark, dangling red fruits, and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, the strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) holds great appeal for gardens But before planting this unusual tree, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to ensure it will meet your needs

Strawberry Tree Pros

Here are some of the benefits and positive attributes of the strawberry tree:

Unique Ornamental Value

The strawberry tree provides multi-season interest with its fruits, flowers, and foliage. The cinnamon-colored, shredding bark and twisted branching habit give it artistic appeal. And it forms either a rounded, domed shrub or small tree shape depending on pruning. This unique look makes it an attention-grabbing garden specimen.

Tolerates Difficult Conditions

Once established, the strawberry tree tolerates drought, wind, salt spray, pollution, and poor soils. It can grow in challenging urban sites. The strawberry tree’s resilience makes it ideal for seaside gardens, xeriscaping, erosion control, and other tough spots.

Provides Shelter and Food for Wildlife

The dense growth of the strawberry tree creates protective cover and nesting sites for birds. Butterflies and bees flock to the nectar-rich flowers. And birds relish the berry-like fruits spreading the seeds. For supporting local ecosystems it’s a great choice.

Long-Lived

With proper care, the strawberry tree can live for hundreds of years. Its longevity means you can enjoy this unique plant for many seasons to come. The strawberry tree develops character as it matures.

Low Maintenance

When established, the strawberry tree requires little upkeep. It tolerates hot, humid summers and still produces its showy blooms and fruits. And it does not require frequent pruning or fertilizing. The easy care of mature plants is a major perk.

Strawberry Tree Cons

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before planting a strawberry tree:

Slow Growth Habit

The strawberry tree grows at a glacial pace – often just a few inches per year. It can take many years for young trees to become well established. Patience is required when growing it. Planting larger, more mature trees can help avoid long wait times for benefits.

Requires Care When Young

While mature strawberry trees are resilient, young specimens need attentive care. They demand more frequent watering, fertilizing, and protection from weather extremes. The initial higher maintenance may be daunting for some growers.

Produces Litter

The strawberry tree sheds copious amounts of leaves, flowers, fruits, and bark pieces. The mess can overwhelm some landscapes. Be prepared for constant cleanup of plant debris if neatness is a high priority.

Susceptible to Pests

Common pests like thrips, scale, and tent caterpillars may infest the strawberry tree. Though not plagued by serious disease issues, its susceptibility still requires vigilant monitoring and treatment. Those seeking completely carefree plants may get frustrated.

Provides Minimal Edible Fruit

Despite its name, the strawberry tree’s fruits offer minimal culinary value for most palates. The berry-like pomes have a dry, mealy texture and bland flavor. Those seeking an edible ornamental may be disappointed. As mainly an ornamental specimen, its fruit production is just a bonus.

Key Considerations Before Planting

When weighing whether to add a strawberry tree to your landscape, keep these key points in mind:

• Ensure you have space for the tree to reach its mature size of up to 20 feet tall and wide.

• Be prepared to provide ample water until young trees establish extensive roots – this may take 2-3 years.

• Select a cultivar suited to your climate and space limitations. Compact types work great for smaller areas.

• Know that significant cleanup of plant debris will be required if you seek a tidy landscape.

• Accept that several years of growth will be needed before the tree flowers and produces much fruit.

• Include other plants that provide food and habitat if you want to maximize benefits for wildlife.

• Choose a planting spot that will showcase the ornamental bark and form as the tree matures.

The Right Tree for the Right Place

When sited properly and matched with owner expectations, the unique strawberry tree can make a marvelous addition to gardens. But it is not ideal for every situation. By thoroughly assessing the pros and cons for your specific needs, you can determine whether planting this unusual ornamental plant will offer more benefits than drawbacks. Weigh the facts, seek advice from experienced growers, and make an informed choice to find the right tree for your landscape vision.