Strawberry tree

Unedo, the Latin name for the strawberry tree, means "I only ate one". The tree probably got this name because the fruits do not taste of much, even though they look delicious - just like strawberries. In Portugal, they use the berries to make a cognac-like beverage, called aguardente de madronho ("strawberry tree fire water").

Honey from the strawberry tree has a characteristic, bitter taste that many people dislike. However, the taste is highly valued by honey experts around the world.

The strawberry tree gets small, white, bell-shaped flowers. In nature, it blooms late in the year when it starts to get cold. It is therefore difficult for the bees to collect nectar for the honey production, and the amount of honey is usually modest.

Fact box:

• Greenhouse location: Mediterranean house
• Danish name: Jordbærtræ
• Latin name: Arbutus unedo
• Family: Heather family / Ericaceae
• Natural habitat: Mediterranean region, western Europe and Ireland