Family: CORNACEAE
A hardy evergreen shrub which grows into a robust small tree to 4 - 9 m in height. It is native to the Himalayas and is sometimes referred to as the strawberry tree because of its strawberry -like fruits, but should not be confused with Arbutus unedo, which is also called the strawberry tree. Other common names include thammal and thanboi. It is easily grown in reasonably good soil and will readily withstand frost, although flower buds may be damaged by excessive winter cold.
It makes a good quick - growing shelter belt and responds to clipping. The shrub is also a fire retardant.
The berries which are produced in late autumn, measure 2 - 5 cm and are one - sided, fleshy, strawberry - like fruits of a dull red colour. The shrub can be included in a chicken forage system as the berries are popular with chooks.