Arbutus

The strawberry tree fruit, from the Arbutus unedo species of the Ericaceae family, is a spherical fruit measuring about 2–3 cm in diameter. It resembles the wild strawberry, but is larger, with a bright red skin and a granular, textured surface. Its yellow pulp has a slightly bittersweet flavor, becoming pleasantly sweet when fully ripe. Inside, it contains 3 or 4 small, compressed seeds.

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Description

Although the fruit itself contains small traces of vitamins, its leaves are rich in tannins. Historically, in 18th-century Greece and other Eastern Mediterranean countries, these leaves were used for tanning leather. In traditional medicine, infusions made from strawberry tree leaves were used as intestinal astringents and antirheumatic remedies.

Today, the strawberry tree fruit is mainly used to make jams and preserves, though in certain northern regions of Spain, it is also used to produce a fermented drink similar to wine or cider.

Because the fruit is highly perishable, it should be consumed immediately after ripening to enjoy its best flavor and texture.

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