If you’ve ever strolled around the University of Malta campus, you might have noticed a tree bearing bright red-orange fruit. Despite its name, the Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo) doesn’t produce strawberries at all!

Professor and marine biologist Alan Deidun has shed some light on this fascinating tree. Though native to southwestern Europe and commonly found in Sicily, the Strawberry Tree - or as it is known in Maltese, 'Imbrijagla' - is quite rare in Malta.

The fruit of this tree, known as the 'arbutus berry' or simply 'strawberry tree fruit', is small, round, and covered in a bumpy, textured skin. While it looks somewhat like a strawberry, it has a unique taste - mildly sweet, with a slightly grainy texture.

This fruit is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and organic acids that act as precursors to omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids - quite the health boost despite its small size! 

Beyond its natural health benefits, the arbutus berry is also used in culinary and alcoholic traditions across Europe. In Portugal, it’s the key ingredient in the traditional fruit brandy ‘Aguardente de Medronhos’, while in Albania, it’s distilled into the popular ‘rakia’. But beware - both drinks pack a serious punch, so sip responsibly!

Have you ever spotted a Strawberry Tree in Malta, or better yet, tasted its fruit?