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October 2007 Arbutus unedo or Strawberry tree is a native of Mediterranean regions and much of western Europe and Ireland where it is known as the Killarney strawberry tree. I had never heard of the species prior to adding this big lump to my collection....I fancied the challenge of something new. Seen here after two seasons growth (it was almost bare of foliage before that) and ready for some work to begin.
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These flowers appear in late autumn.
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The following summer the edible "strawberries" look very tempting.
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Trunk detail before the work.
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Definitely not shohin bonsai material!
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Trunk detail after the work is completed.
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Much more compact. Initial branch lines selected and placed in position. Deadwood cleaned and some small areas of carving started. 3-4 years from collecting we begin to see the bonsai emerging. This year has seen the leaf size reduce dramatically.
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Me and the "Strawberry tree". This is one of the most rewarding trees I have ever owned. November 2007.
