PlantFiles: Killarney Strawberry Tree, Strawberry Tree
Arbutus unedo 'Compacta'

I needed to plant something in a round planter that is the focal point of my small front yard. I wanted it to be something of manageable size, drought tolerant, ever-green, and shade-producing for my westward living room. After considerable deliberation, I settled on this specie of arbutus, and now, three years later, I am richly rewarded. This photo was taken in November 2012. After a weekend of gentle rain, the tree is looking its best, the graceful ebony tree bark beautifully complements the vivid green of the leaves. Although not easily seen in the photo, small bright red and yellow fruits dot the foliage like so many tiny Christmas lights.
The only drawback is that the fallen fruits make a mess on the ground - but that's a small price to pay. Care is minimal.

This lovely shrub has 4-season interest: evergreen leaves, peeling bark, tiny white urn-shaped flowers, and best of all, fruits that have the texture of strawberries and the shape of cherries. The fruits are edible, though tasteless. I even have one growing in the most shady part of my zone 8b yard; while it doesn't produce much fruit, it still looks nice.