Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Ericales
Family:
Genus:
Species:
occidentalis
ID:
543832

Status:
valid

Authors:
McVaugh & Rosatti

Source:
cmp

Year:
1978

Citation Micro:
Contr. Univ. Michigan Herb. 11: 303 (1978)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000543164

Common Names

  • Western Madrone
  • Pacific Madrone
  • Strawberry Tree

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Synonyms

  • Arbutus occidentalis villosa McVaugh & Rosatti [valid]

Description

Arbutus occidentalis (also called Western Madrone, among many other common names) is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree in the heather family Ericaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and western Europe, from Portugal and France east to the Aegean Sea. It typically grows in dry, rocky, and sunny areas, and can reach heights of up to 10 meters.

Uses & Benefits

Arbutus occidentalis is a flowering plant that is used for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks. It is also used as a ground cover to prevent soil erosion.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

Arbutus occidentalis flowers are white or pinkish-white in color and have five petals. The seed is a small, hard, dark brown nutlet. The seedlings are small, with a single cotyledon and a pair of opposite, simple leaves.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Arbutus occidentalis can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the spring in a well-drained, sandy soil. Cuttings should be taken in the summer and planted in a well-drained, sandy soil. Both methods require full sun and regular watering.

Where to Find Arbutus occidentalis

Arbutus occidentalis can be found in North America, particularly in Canada and the United States.

Arbutus occidentalis FAQ

What is the growth rate of Arbutus occidentalis?

The growth rate of Arbutus occidentalis is slow to moderate.

What is the soil type for Arbutus occidentalis?

Arbutus occidentalis prefers well-drained, acidic soil.

What is the light requirement for Arbutus occidentalis?

Arbutus occidentalis prefers full sun to partial shade.

Species in the Ericaceae family

References

Rogers McVaugh (1909-2009): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'McVaugh' in the authors string.
Thomas James Rosatti (b.1951): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Rosatti' in the authors string.