Strawberry tree
A colourful Mediterranean tree that’s great for British wildlife.
Mediterranean origins
The evergreen Strawberry tree, originally from the Mediterranean, thrives in the cemetery. The trees are particularly colourful in the late autumn, when they are covered in fruit and flowers. The red fruits grow very slowly, so are still on the tree when the new flowers appear.
Strawberry tree flowers
The sweet-smelling bell-shaped flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and other insects, and birds feast on the fruit. Insects and small animals also find shelter among the dense evergreen foliage during the winter.
The tree’s strawberry-like fruit can be eaten raw, but don’t taste particularly nice. They are usually made into jam in Mediterranean countries, and to make alcoholic drinks. Strawberry tree honey, which has a distinctive bitter flavour, is also very popular.