Arizona Maderone

Arbutus arizonica

Physical Characteristics

Arbutus arizonica is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - S. Arizona to New Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: The berries are edible fresh, though overconsumption may cause nausea or vomiting. Ripe fruits are pleasantly sweet with a bland aftertaste, containing about half flesh and half delicately crunchy seeds. Unlike manzanita, the seeds are soft and do not require removal, making them easy to process. Berries can be dried for flour or used to make cider, wine, or jelly. Unripe green fruits taste awful and should be avoided. Timing is crucial—fruits mature from July to October and often fall soon after ripening, sometimes littering the ground in a vibrant red carpet[2-3]. Fruit - raw. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter with a thin sweetish flesh[82].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent The bitter principles in the bark and leaves can be used as an astringent[229].

Known Hazards

None known