A plant record

Strawberry Tree (Planika / Jagodičnjak)

Arbutus unedo · Ericaceae

EnglishStrawberry Tree

FrançaisArbousier commun

BotanicalArbutus unedo

On the second shorePlanika / Jagodičnjak

FamilyEricaceae

Strawberry Tree — Arbutus unedo, used in Adriatic and Balkan herbal tradition

Traditionally used

⚠ Avoid in pregnancy (insufficient safety data). Do not use long-term without breaks (hydroquinone from arbutin). Not for children under 12. Leaf decoction (1–2 tsp dried leaves / 250 ml, simmer 5 min): UTI, urinary antiseptic, mild diuretic. Max 1 week continuous use. Berries: edible fresh or for spirits.

On the Adriatic shore

⚠ Izbjegavati u trudnoći (nedovoljno podataka o sigurnosti). Ne koristiti dugotrajno bez stanki (hidrokinon iz arbutina). Nije za djecu mlađu od 12 godina. Odvar od planike: 1–2 žlice sušenih listova na 250 ml, kuhati 5 min. Za infekcije mokraćnog puta. Max 1 tjedan. Bobice: jestive ili rakija.

In three languages

Français — ⚠ À éviter pendant la grossesse (données insuffisantes). Ne pas utiliser au long cours sans pauses (hydroquinone issue de l'arbutine). Déconseillé aux enfants de moins de 12 ans. Décoction feuilles (1–2 c. à café / 250 ml, mijoter 5 min) : infections urinaires, antiseptique. Max 1 semaine. Baies : fraîches ou en eau-de-vie.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Sources & lineage

Insular Pharmacopoeias (PMC8138454); Dalmatian ethnobotany; PubMed Arbutus unedo pharmacology

Kept alongside

BearberryHeather

More on Adriatic & Balkan plant medicine