Strawberry trees are rare in gardens. They come from the Mediterranean. These trees thrive in open forests and rocky areas. They also grow in Europe, America, Asia, the Caucasus, and the Black Sea area.
The strawberry tree, or Arbutus, grows in southern areas like Crimea and the Black Sea coast. It belongs to the heather family. The tree sheds its bark each year. It is also known for producing high-quality honey. The wood resists rot. People once used it to make furniture and other items.
These plants can be shrubs or trees. They can grow up to 15 meters tall. The bark is rough. It has a brown or copper color. The leaves are wide and egg-shaped, with short stems. Veins are easy to see on the leaves. The edges of the leaves have small teeth. The leaves are green with a shiny look. They feel like leather.
Strawberry trees can grow and produce fruit alone. They have both male and female parts. They don't need other plants to help them make fruit. People have different opinions about the taste of the fruit.
The fruits are sometimes eaten, but not always. The tree is famous for its many uses.
In folk medicine, almost all parts of the plant are helpful. People gather the plant in summer. Then they dry it in machines or in the sun. The dried plant can be stored for a few years. It is used to make medicines. It can treat skin problems. It can also help with urinary and stomach issues.
People make teas and other liquids from the plant. These can treat ear, nose, and throat problems. An extract from the plant can relax muscles. It can also reduce swelling. The extract is also a good way to remove extra water from the body.