Who has heard of the strawberry tree?

We stumbled upon one recently on a forest walk.

Its actual name is Arbutus unedo, but it’s popularly known as strawberry tree, because the berries bear a similar colour and they are spotted – reminiscent of strawberries.

The tree is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in most of western Europe. The fruit ripens from mid-October till December, so it’s truly an autumn/winter berry!

The ripe berries turn a bright shade of red and orange, and you can eat them straight off the tree (maybe give them a little rinse first).

What’s in the winter strawberries?

They contain more vitamin C than an orange, they are full of tannins, pectins (so good for jams too) and are great for intestinal inflammation.

But be careful not to eat them unripe (it can cause slight nausea), nor overripe when it can cause mild intoxication 😜

And while you are here, have a look at my services to see how I can help you on your eco journey!