Arbutus × andrachnoides (Hybrid Strawberry Tree)

Arbutus × andrachnoides, the Hybrid Strawberry Tree, is the result of a cross between Arbutus andrachne (Eastern Strawberry Tree) and Arbutus unedo (Irish Strawberry Tree). It is a naturally occurring hybrid, but hybrid cultivars have also been created. It has gained the RHS's Award of Garden Merit.

This tree is a dense evergreen shrub originated from the Mediterranean. Leaves are dark green with serrated margins. The bell-shaped flowers are white, followed by red fruits 2cm across, with a rough surface. The fruit is edible when cooked and is sweet but it can be a little bland. It contains about 20% sugar and can be used to make delicious and nourishing jams and preserves.The trees are extremely good for attracting tui to your garden. H 10m.