Strawberry trees

The strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) is a shrub of considerable size, very common on Elba, where it is present in almost all mountainous areas. With a height ranging from one meter to about 7/8 meters, it is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Ericaceae family.

In its full splendor during the winter period, with the vivid color of the fruits, ranging from yellow to red, along with the white clusters of flowers, it helps brighten up the green of the Mediterranean scrub.

Among its features are the reddish and cracked bark, the beautiful glossy green leaves, and in the autumn/winter period, the white flowers (small clusters of bell-shaped blooms), and the colors ranging from yellow to deep red of the ripe berries.

The Latin name suggests a moderate consumption (unum edo = I eat only one), as the fruit contains an alkaloid that in some particularly sensitive people may cause inconvenience, usually not severe.

The fruits ripen the following year, at the end of summer and in autumn/winter. The plant therefore hosts flowers, immature fruits, and ripe fruits at the same time, making it particularly ornamental.

It has diuretic, anti-inflammatory, depurative, and antiseptic properties. The bark and roots must be dried in the sun, and the fruits are consumed fresh. The strawberries have a slightly sour taste, which tends to sweeten only when the berry is very ripe.

Excellent for jams, but the real delicacy is the honey obtained from it.