Arbutus Unedo Rubra 20 Litre Pot 125/150cm

Arbutus unedo ‘Rubra’ – Pink Strawberry Tree with Year-Round Appeal

Arbutus unedo ‘Rubra’ is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree that delights with its combination of glossy green foliage, decorative bark, delicate flowers, and unusual fruit. A pink-flowered form of the classic Strawberry Tree, it’s valued for its ability to bring interest to the garden across all four seasons.

In autumn, clusters of small, bell-shaped, pink flowers appear—similar in style to heathers or pieris—offering a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators. At the same time, the previous year’s fruit ripens, creating a unique display of soft pink blooms alongside red, strawberry-like fruits. These fruits are edible, with a mild, sweet flavour, and can be used for jams or liqueurs.

The bark is another standout feature—smooth and reddish-brown, peeling slightly with age to reveal cinnamon tones beneath. Combined with the lush evergreen leaves, this creates a refined yet natural look, perfect for Mediterranean-style, coastal, or woodland-edge gardens.

Why Grow Arbutus unedo ‘Rubra’?

• Evergreen Beauty – Glossy, deep green leaves hold their colour all year, providing structure even in winter.

• Seasonal Drama – Pink flowers in autumn, colourful fruits in winter, and attractive bark year-round.

• Low-Maintenance and Hardy – Tolerates poor soils, wind, and coastal exposure, making it a reliable choice in challenging spots.

• Wildlife-Friendly – Flowers provide nectar for pollinators, while fruits are enjoyed by birds.

Planting & Care Guide

Position: Prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Choose a sheltered spot to protect the flowers from frost.

Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil, from neutral to slightly acidic or alkaline. Tolerates poorer soils once established.

Watering: Water regularly for the first year. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and needs little supplementary watering.

Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required—remove only damaged or crossing branches after flowering.

Design Ideas & Combinations

• Specimen Tree – Perfect as a standalone feature on a lawn, gravel garden, or courtyard.

• Mediterranean Garden – Combine with olives, lavender, and rosemary for a sun-drenched look.

• Coastal Planting – Excellent in wind-exposed sites, pairing well with pittosporum and phormium.

• Wildlife Gardens – Plant alongside buddleja, cotoneaster, or crab apple to extend seasonal food sources for pollinators and birds.

Arbutus unedo ‘Rubra’ is a resilient, beautiful choice for gardeners seeking an evergreen feature that offers more than just foliage. With its pink blooms, vibrant fruits, and decorative bark, it’s a tree that earns its place in the garden every month of the year.