Arbutus canariensis

Height Guide

These heights are approximate. Batches change frequently, so if you need exact heights, we recommend confirming current batch heights with our sales team.

• 40cm/45L: Approx. 1.5m - 3m tall
• 70cm: Approx. 3m - 5m tall
• Mature height: Typically 5m - 10m tall, with a spread of 3m - 6m

Why Choose Arbutus canariensis for Your Landscape?

• Beautiful Peeling Bark – Rich reddish-brown bark peels to reveal smooth, pale underlayers, adding year-round visual interest.
• Evergreen & Ornamental Foliage – Lush, glossy green leaves provide a dense, attractive canopy.
• Clusters of Bell-Shaped Flowers – Small, creamy-white to pinkish flowers bloom in autumn, attracting pollinators.
• Edible Red Fruits – Produces strawberry-like fruit that ripens in late autumn, loved by birds and wildlife.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant – Well-suited to dry climates and Mediterranean-style gardens.
• Low Maintenance & Long-Lived – Grows well with minimal care and thrives for decades.

Enhancing Soil for Vibrant Growth and Ornamental Appeal

Ideal Drainage: Arbutus canariensis thrives best in well-drained, fertile soil, which promotes its ornamental appeal and fruit production.

Well-Draining Soil: This soil type is excellent for Arbutus canariensis, supporting both its growth and decorative aspects seamlessly.

If you have the following soil, here are some tips for you:

• Sandy Soil: Arbutus canariensis performs well in sandy soil due to its excellent drainage properties. To further enhance the soil, consider enriching it with well-rotted manure or compost, which will improve fertility and support more vigorous growth.
• Clay Soil: Although Arbutus canariensis prefers well-draining conditions, it can certainly be grown in clay soil with some modifications. Improve the structure and drainage by amending with organic matter and coarse sand. This will help mimic the ideal conditions by preventing water from pooling around the roots, thus promoting healthier growth.
• Loamy Soil: Arbutus canariensis flourishes in loamy soil, which typically provides a balance of drainage and nutrient retention. Continue to enrich this soil with organic amendments to maintain high fertility, ensuring that the tree remains vibrant and productive.
• Peaty Soil: While Arbutus canariensis prefers well-drained conditions, peaty soil can be made suitable by enhancing its drainage with sand or fine gravel. This adjustment helps avoid waterlogging and makes the rich organic content of peaty soil beneficial for the tree's growth.

These recommendations are crafted to accentuate the positive qualities of each soil type while providing practical advice on how to adjust less than ideal conditions, ensuring that Arbutus canariensis not only survives but thrives in a variety of garden settings.

Caring for Your Arbutus canariensis

Watering

• Establishment Phase (First Year): Water deeply once a week, more frequently in hot or dry conditions.
• Mature Trees: Drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells.

Pruning

• Timing: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and shape the tree.
• Method: Avoid excessive pruning; allow its natural form to develop.

Fertilization

• When to Fertilize: Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring.
• How to Fertilize: Spread around the root zone, avoiding direct contact with the trunk.

Pest & Disease Monitoring

• Pests: Generally pest-free but may occasionally attract aphids or scale insects.
• Diseases: Rarely affected by disease, but proper drainage prevents root rot.

Mulching

• Benefits: Helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Application: Apply a 5-7cm organic mulch layer, keeping it a few centimeters away from the trunk.

Winter Care

• Naturally frost-tolerant, but young trees may benefit from wind protection in colder regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arbutus canariensis suitable for small gardens?

• Yes, it has a moderate growth rate and can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. Ideal for courtyards, Mediterranean gardens, and feature planting.

How often should I water my Arbutus canariensis?

• Young trees: Water deeply once a week during establishment.
• Mature trees: Drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering in extended dry periods.

Does Arbutus canariensis attract wildlife?

• Yes, its flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies, and its fruit attracts birds and small mammals.

How big does Arbutus canariensis grow?

• Typically reaches 5m - 10m tall, with a spread of 3m - 6m, making it an excellent ornamental and shade tree.

How long does it live?

• It is a long-lived species, capable of thriving for 50+ years in the right conditions.