Definition

Noun 1. A type of evergreen shrub or small tree: Any of several species belonging to the genus Arbutus, characterized by glossy leaves, clusters of small white or pink bell-shaped flowers, and often rough, peeling bark. These plants are native to temperate regions of Europe and the Americas.

Usage and Examples

• The arbutus is prized in gardens for its attractive, peeling reddish bark and ornamental berries.
• We found a grove of Pacific madrone, a type of arbutus, growing along the coastal cliff.
• The strawberry tree () is a well-known species of arbutus found in the Mediterranean region.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The term arbutus is often used specifically to refer to the strawberry tree (), which produces edible, strawberry-like fruits.
• In botanical and horticultural contexts, arbutus distinguishes plants of the genus from other superficially similar plants. For example, the "trailing arbutus" () is a different, low-growing plant.

Variants and Related Words

• Strawberry tree: A common name for .
• Madrone or Madroña: Common names for , the Pacific madrone, native to the west coast of North America.
• Manzanita: While also in the heath family (Ericaceae), manzanitas belong to the genus , not , though they are related.

Synonyms

• Strawberry tree (for )
• Madrone (for )

Noun

1. any of several evergreen shrubs of the genus Arbutus of temperate Europe and America