Arbutus Andrachnoides vs Marina

I'm looking to replace my A Andrachnoides which, having survived four years in my garden and reached 10ft broke in a storm right down at ground level last month, despite being staked, (although I suspect that the stake might have failed), so want to get it right this time round!

Do any Shoot members have information about A Marina in comparison to A Andrachnoides in terms of hardiness and robustness? My A Andrachnoides was planted in what was effectively a raised bed, and I had no problems with hardiness despite temperatures last year of -15C, but clearly wind is a problem. Also, which is faster growing?

Re: Arbutus Andrachnoides vs Marina

Reply from Kathy C

Hi, Alison,
A. 'Marina' typically fruits nicely, A. x andrachnoides doesn't set fruit well, or sometimes not at all. A 'Marina' has a moderate growth rate, A. x andrachnoides is slow. Personally, I prefer 'Marina'.
Whatever you go with, make sure the stake only stays on for a year. Studies show that trees staked beyond a year after planting are actually weaker than those that had no stake or only had a stake for a year. Removing the stake allows the tree to move in wind which actually serves to strengthen the trunk. Also, any stake used should never be more than 1m high.
Kathy C

Re: Re: Arbutus Andrachnoides vs Marina

Reply from Alison Shamwana

Hi Kathy. Thanks so much for your advice - I will definitely go for A 'Marina'. You are quite right, my A Andrachnoides never fruited, but the deciding factor is the rate of growth. I will also take on board your comments re staking.
Best wishes, Alison