A Winter Survival Superfood. Why Supermarkets Refuse to Sell This Edible Fruit

It fruits in the dead of winter, survived the Ice Age, and produces one of the rarest, most medicinal honeys on Earth—so why have you never seen it in a supermarket? In this episode, we rediscover the Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo), a forgotten botanical paradox that defies the seasons. From its mysterious native range in ancient Ireland and the Mediterranean to its misinterpretation by Roman historians, we uncover the truth about this resilient "winter tree." Learn why modern agriculture abandoned it, how its "bitter honey" fights disease, and why this zero-input food source is the perfect addition to a resilient food forest today.

References
Pliny the Elder. Naturalis Historia. Book XV, Chapter 28. (Primary source for the "Unedo" etymology).

Molina, M. et al. (2011). "Nutritional analysis of Arbutus unedo L. fruits." Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. (Source for Vitamin C and antioxidant data).

Tuberoso, C.I. et al. (2010). "Chemical composition and antioxidant activities of Sardinian honey." Food Chemistry. (Analysis of Corbezzolo honey properties).

Seid, M.A. et al. (2013). "Arbutus unedo L.: chemical and biological properties." American Journal of Plant Sciences. (Overview of pharmacological properties).

Mitchell, F.J.G. (1993). "The biogeography of the Irish flora." University of Dublin, Trinity College. (Source on the Lusitanian flora mystery).

USDA GRIN Taxonomy for Plants. Arbutus unedo entry.

Piotr, S. et al. (2019). "Arbutus unedo L. fruits as a source of valuable bioactive compounds." Industrial Crops and Products.

Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Arbutus unedo plant profile and cultivation data.

Disclaimer: This video is for educational and historical purposes only. While we cite scientific papers regarding the nutritional and medicinal properties of Arbutus unedo, this content does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any plant for medicinal purposes. Furthermore, always ensure 100% positive identification before foraging or consuming any wild plant or berry.

#Permaculture #FoodForest #Foraging #Ethnobotany #RareFruit