Very ornamental and excellent landscaping trees, Arbtus are a long lived small to medium tree that have been grown in Australia for many years. Commonly known as the Madrone, and also Irish Strawberry Tree, a number of species and a few cultivars are available in Australia.
Arbutus Information and Description.
Arbutus are a tough evergreen tree suitable for most gardens. These are a drought tolerant tree that come in three main forms suitable for the home garden. A. unedo, A. canariensis and A. x andrachnoides. The cultivar Arbutus pink pearls is a form of A. unedo.
The Irish Strawberry name comes from the fruit, however it is the foliage, flowers and bark that make this an outstanding garden tree.
In particular the peeling bark of a mature specimen looks wonderful especially when wet. The foliage is a deep green and attractive year round, and the small white flowers remind us of Lily of the Valley, although some have pink flowers.
With outstanding bark colour these are a great feature plant in the Australian garden. Native to warm temperate regions of the Mediterranean, Western Europe, and North America.
Arbutus Varieties
- A. unedo – Small tree to around 6m with a similar spread. Glossy green foliage, white flowers in winter to spring followed by red fruits.
- A. canariensis – This is the Canary Island Madrone, green to white flowers on a small tree to around 5m in height.
- Arbutus x andrachnoides – White Lily of the Valley type flowers on a small tree to 6 metres. This is a hybrid variety and is sterile.
- Arbutus Pink Pearls – A smalol tree with pink flowers and a very attractive cinnamon coloured bark.
Arbutus are available for sale from the following nurseries
1070 Jacksons Track, Jindivick 3818
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.jindivickcountrygardener.com.au
WINTER HILL TREE FARM Ph: 02 4878 9193 Fax: 02 4878 9109
NSW Southern Highlands
Retail & Wholesale. Advanced trees & hedging. Grown in pots for year-round planting. 45 litre - 1000 litre available. Great range. Great Quality. Delivery available.
www.winterhill.com.au
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au