The strawberry tree, known scientifically as Arbutus unedo, is a distinctive evergreen plant that yields eye-catching, round, red-orange fruits. Many people encountering this tree for the first time wonder if these vibrant, berry-like fruits are safe and suitable for consumption.
Are Strawberry Tree Fruits Edible?
The fruits of the strawberry tree are indeed edible and have been consumed in various parts of the world for centuries. They are considered safe to eat when fully ripe, and their consumption is traditional in Mediterranean regions and Western Europe. While not as commonly cultivated for fruit as other species, the arbutus berry offers a unique addition to the diet.
Identifying the Strawberry Tree and Its Fruit
Accurate identification of the Arbutus unedo is important before consuming its fruits. This evergreen can grow as a shrub or a small tree, reaching heights of 4 to 7 meters. The bark is reddish-brown and often shaggy or exfoliating, revealing a lighter inner bark. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, measuring about 8-10 cm long with serrated edges. The small, bell-shaped flowers appear in drooping clusters during autumn, sometimes alongside the ripening fruits.
The fruits themselves are spherical berries, 7-20 mm in diameter, with a rough, bumpy surface that gives them a resemblance to strawberries. They mature slowly over about 12 months, ripening from green to yellow, then to a vibrant red or orange. It is important to note that the fruits from the previous year often ripen concurrently with the new season’s blossoms.
Flavor Profile and Culinary Uses
The flavor of fully ripe strawberry tree fruits is described as mildly sweet with a slight tartness, sometimes compared to a bland peach, fig, or pear. Their texture can be somewhat gritty or mealy due to tiny seeds and their rough exterior. While some find them underwhelming when eaten fresh, others appreciate their unique taste, which can also have a subtle licorice-like scent.
These fruits are quite versatile in culinary applications. They are frequently used to make jams, jellies, and preserves. In regions like Portugal, the fruits are distilled into a brandy known as aguardente de medronhos, and they can also be used in liqueurs, syrups, and even vinegars.
Important Considerations for Enjoying the Fruit
For the best flavor and texture, it is important to consume only fully ripe strawberry tree fruits, which are typically bright red or orange. Underripe fruits tend to be more astringent and can have a grittier texture. While edible, consuming very large quantities of the fruit, particularly if slightly underripe, may lead to mild digestive upset in some individuals. This is often attributed to their tannin content.
The fruits also contain a high concentration of natural sugars. A popular belief suggests eating too many could lead to a mild intoxicating effect due to fermentation on the tree. However, this is largely anecdotal, and moderation is always recommended, especially for those trying the fruit for the first time.