Arbutus unedo is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree. The spelling of the word "Arbutus Unedo" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as ɑrbjutəs juːˈniːdoʊ, where the stress is on the second syllable of "unedo". The name "Arbutus" comes from the Latin word "arbutus", which means strawberry tree, while "unedo" is derived from "unum edo" meaning "I eat one". This refers to the tree's fruit, which reportedly has a taste that takes getting used to.
Arbutus unedo, commonly known as the strawberry tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Ericaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is known for its distinctive appearance and edible fruit.
The Arbutus unedo plant typically grows up to 5-10 meters in height, featuring a smooth reddish-brown bark and dark green, leathery leaves. The leaves are lanceolate in shape and have serrated edges. The plant produces small, urn-shaped flowers that have a white or pink hue and bloom in the autumn months. These flowers are bell-shaped and grow in dense clusters, adding to the appeal of the plant.
However, the most notable feature of the Arbutus unedo is its fruit. The fruit is round and resembles a strawberry, hence the name "strawberry tree." It starts as a green berry, changing to yellow and ultimately ripening into a red hue. The fruit has a sweet flavor when fully ripe but can be somewhat astringent and tart when still developing. Many people consume the fruit raw, use it in making jams, jellies, and liqueurs, or dry it as a flavoring for desserts and herbal teas.
Arbutus unedo is often cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance, glossy leaves, and vibrant fruit. It is also valued for its ability to adapt to various soil conditions and its resistance to drought.
The strawberry-tree of southern Europe.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Arbutus Unedo" has a Latin etymology.
The genus name "Arbutus" comes from the Latin word "arbutus", which refers to the strawberry tree. This name was likely derived from the Greek word "arbutos" or "arbutos" which had a similar meaning.
The species name "Unedo" is also from Latin and translates to "I eat one". This name was given to the plant because of its reputed taste, where it was said that one who tasted the fruit would only want to eat one.