About

Arbutus unedo 'Quercifolia' is an evergreen tree that can reach heights of approximately 8 meters. It features coarse, red-brown bark and glossy leaves that exhibit irregular, lobed margins, reminiscent of oak foliage. In autumn, it produces clusters of urn-shaped white flowers tinged with pink, which give way to textured fruits that mature to a red hue by the next autumn, coinciding with the emergence of new blooms. Although the fruit is edible and utilized in the production of jams and liqueurs in various regions, in the UK, this variety is primarily cultivated for its ornamental attributes.

About the genus

Arbutus consists of evergreen trees and shrubs that produce small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of creamy-white or pink. In the autumn, they bear red, strawberry-like fruits.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Plant type

Trees

Habit

Spreading branched

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

4-8 metres

Spread

4-8 metres

Time to full height

10-20 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens

Toxicity

Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in well drained soil in full sun, plants dislike shade and waterlogging. Young plants may need winter protection in areas prone to hard frosts. Some drought tolerance once established

Pruning

Pruning group 1 but keep pruning to a minimum

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to aphids

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to Arbutus leaf spot and honey fungus