About
Arbutus x reyorum 'Marina' develops into a compact, upright tree, though its growth rate is slow, allowing it to function as a shrub for an extended period. The plant features red-brown bark that peels away and glossy, dark green leaves that can reach lengths of up to 12 cm, exhibiting a bronzed appearance when young. In late summer and autumn, it produces large clusters of urn-shaped white flowers that are tinged with deep pink. These blooms are followed by round fruits that transition from yellow to red. While the fruits are edible and utilized in the making of jams and liqueurs in some regions, in the UK, this species is primarily cultivated for its ornamental appeal.
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
- Loam, Sand, Chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees, Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Mediterranean climate plants, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
- 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 humus-rich, well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position
- 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