Arbutus x Andrachnoides “Marina”

Arbutus “Marina” is one of my favorite trees and one of the first trees that I planted in my ground zero garden when we moved into our current home. During the freeze and blow of last winter it was damaged and pruning the damage only left two strange looking branches so it had to go. There is some argument over whether or not Arbutus “Marina” is hardy in the PNW. As always, my position is “It depends”. Two other Arbutus Marina, as well as some Arbutus unedo and Arbutus unedo “compacta ” that I had on my lot suffered a bit but came back beautifully and you’d never know what they looked like at the end of winter.

Arbutus “Marina” in Bloom

Around Seattle I noticed damage on both Arbutus “Marina” and Arbutus menziessi (Pacific Madrone). Some was due to freezing and wind and some was due to what looked like disease. Arbutus unedo fared a little better, possible due to its lower profile. Trees and shrubs that were in exposed areas, or areas that got too wet suffered much more than others.

Arbutus “Marina” in Bloom

I was tempted to just plant another Marina where the damaged one had been but I have finally learned that this never works in the garden. If something struggles too much or dies there are multiple issues – usually the most problematic is location. Instead of replacing the Marina I decided to plant some native perennials that can serve as windbreak, but more on that later.

Bark of the Arbutus “Marina”

Even with our unusually harsh winters I would still recommend Arbutus “Marina” and Arbutus unedo for the Pacific Northwest garden. I find they are hardy if not exposed to too much wind or soggy ground. They will not take over your space like a Madrone but add the same beautiful colors and textures.