ARBUTUS, a genus of evergreen trees or shrubs of the heath family (Ericaceae) characterized by smooth, red, exfoliating bark, handsome foliage, showy flowers in terminal clusters and attrac tive, berry-like red fruit. There are about 20 species, found chiefly in the Mediterranean region, Central America and western North America. In mild climates several species of Arbutus are planted for their beautiful foliage, flowers and fruit. Of these, the best known is the strawberry tree (A. Unedo), a native of southern Europe and Ireland. The Madrono (A. Menziesii), an elegant tree of the west coast of North America, is sparingly trans planted. The trailing arbutus (q.v.), or mayflower, of eastern North America, belongs to a different genus (Epigaea) of the heath family.