:: Flora of Northern Ireland ::

Previous Species Heathers Species List Next Species

Arbutus unedo Ericaceae Strawberry-tree
Click on the thumbnails to enlarge the images
Arbutus unedo
© Graham Day
Arbutus unedo
© Graham Day
Arbutus unedo
© Graham Day
Arbutus unedo
Map updated: March 2008
Species Description:
The strawberry tree is one of the botanical specialities of Ireland, but it is not native to Northern Ireland.

There are a number of old planted trees growing by the Glen River in Donard Park, near the site of Donard Lodge (demolished), in a wild-looking situation that resembles its native haunts in Kerry. Other planted examples are occasionally encountered in gardens or parks.

The tree is remarkable for bearing its strawberry-like fruits at the same time as the flowers, which are white, bell-shaped and typical of the heather family. The leaves resemble those of Rhododendron ponticum.

All names: Arbutus unedo L.

© National Museums Northern Ireland, 2000-2009

| Home | | Return to previous page|