- Different varieties with different properties
- The strawberry tree in winter
- Arbutus as a container plant
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The extremely attractive strawberry tree originally thrives in the Mediterranean region. The orange-red fruits, which visually resemble strawberries with their warty surface, give the plant its name. The bell-shaped flowers are reminiscent of those of our native heather, to which the strawberry tree is actually related. In the meantime, the pretty plant can also be found more and more frequently in warm regions of Germany. It is one of the most beautiful potted plants, although care is easier than many gardeners think.
Some types of strawberry trees tolerate frost
Different varieties with different properties
In addition to the well-known representative Arbutus unedo, there is the Arbutus menziesii and the Arbutus andrachne, both of which also belong to the Strawberry Tree genus. They differ primarily in optical details. Arbutus andrachne grows up to five meters high. Arbutus medziesii is one of the giant plants and can reach a height of over forty meters.
Other strawberry tree species are of little importance in Germany. Unlike the representatives of this genus mentioned above, which can withstand temperatures of down to -10 °C, they are only conditionally hardy at best. For this reason, they are not suitable for our climate.
The strawberry tree in winter
If you live in a climatically favorable region of Germany, you can cultivate the strawberry tree outdoors all year round. Nevertheless, there are a few points to consider when hibernating:
- The trunk, foliage and ground area need winter protection made from breathable jute or a special plant fleece.
- A wind-protected, sunny to semi-shady location is ideal, for example near a wall.
- Make sure the soil is well drained, as all Arbutus species are very sensitive to waterlogging.
Arbutus as a container plant
Of course, it is easily possible to cultivate the strawberry tree in a tub and bring it indoors during the cold winter months. Please note:
- The cooler the chosen room, the more comfortable the plant feels.
- Since Arbutus keeps its foliage even in winter, the winter quarters should not be too dark.
- A frost-free garage with a window, a bright basement room or a greenhouse that is sparingly heated in severe frost would be ideal.
- Water as little as possible. A small sip of water is enough from time to time, because the substrate should not dry out completely.
- There is no fertilization during the winter months.
tips
The strawberry tree is not very tolerant when solid obstacles such as buildings or fences anchored in the ground limit the growth of the roots. If you want to cultivate the attractive tree outdoors, you should give it a place where root growth is not hindered.