Arbutus x alepensis H. B. & K. (Ericaceae) An evergreen shrub or small tree with peeling red bark, reddish flowers and red strawberry-like fruit, native of E and C Mexico, usually growing on limestone at up to 3000m, flowering in spring. Tree to 5m; young shoots hairy, the bark peeling in the second year; leaves ovate to elliptic, rounded at the base, variable on the same tree from coarsely to very finely toothed. Flowers red in an upright branching inflorescence. For well-drained dry soil; thrives on limestone. Min. -5°C.