Common Name:

General Information

Arbutus × andrachnoides is an evergreen multi-stemmed shrub or small tree - specimens up to 9 metres tall and with a similar spread have been observed[].
The tree is harvested for its fruit, which is eaten locally. It is often grown as an ornamental in gardens.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

Southeastern Europe - Greee

Habitat

Not known

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	10.00 m
Growth Rate	Medium
Pollinators	Bees
Self-fertile	Yes
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Arbutus × andrachnoides is a naturally occurring hybrid between Arbutus unedo and Arbutus andrachne[, ]. It is found wild in Greece, and has also been produced in cultivation[]. It succeeds outdoors in the milder regions of the temperate zone and has been shown to be capable of withstanding occasional temperatures falling as low as about -15°c[].
Prefers a lime-free nutrient-rich well-drained moisture-retentive soil in a sunny position with shelter from cold drying winds, especially when young[]. Unlike most members of this genus, this species thrives on a limy soil[, ].
There are some named forms, selected for their ornamental value[].
Trees rarely produce fruit in Britain[].
Plants resent root disturbance and are best placed in their final positions whilst young[, ]. Give them some protection in their first winter.
Plants sometimes flower in the spring, but more usually in the late autumn and early winter.

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw[]. A pleasant texture with a sweet but delicate flavour, the fruit is considered to be insipid by many people[]. Very similar in size and taste to the strawberry tree, A. unedo[], though it is not usually borne very freely[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best surface sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed should be soaked for 5 - 6 days in warm water and then surface sown in a shady position in a greenhouse[]. Do not allow the compost to become dry. 6 weeks cold stratification helps[]. The seed usually germinates well in 2 - 3 months at 20°c[]. Seedlings are prone to damp off[], they are best transplanted to individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and should be kept well ventilated. Grow them on in a greenhouse for their first winter and then plant out in late spring after the last expected frosts[]. This species is a hybrid and is unlikely to breed true from seed.
Basal cuttings in late winter[].
Cuttings of mature wood of the current season's growth, late autumn in a frame. Poor percentage[].
Layering of young wood - can take 2 years[, ].