Marina Strawberry Tree

A somewhat tender, but highly desirable small  yard tree, Arbutus 'Marina' has characteristics of Manzinata and Madrone trees. Now considered a natural hybrid of two tree species native to the Mediterranean region, Arbutus unedo and Arbutus andrachne. The most desirable characteristic is its bark, which peels away from the trunk and branches revealing the beautiful shiny red new bark underneath. The pendulous clusters of urn-shaped white-blushed-pink flowers are produced year-round along the coast with peaks in spring and fall. The tree is considered to be drought tolerant, but enjoys occasional summer watering. Hardy to 15-20 degrees F, the tree does best planted in full sun. The root system is a bit weak when the tree is young, so staking is recommended until fully established. The red strawberry-like fruit is edible, although has little flavor, but birds are attracted to eat the fruit so no litter is produced.   Some history: the tree was introduced by the Saratoga Horticultural Fou