The etymology of the species name corresponds to the Ancient Greek word ἀνδράχνη (andrákhnē), meaning "wild strawberry",[3][4] and refers to the common name of the tree and to its fruits.

The smooth bark is exfoliating during the summer, leaving a layer with a pistachio green colour, which changes gradually to an orange brown.

Its fruits ripen in autumn, and when left to dry in a cool place, are eaten as sweet, chewy candy.

[5][6] Arbutus andrachne was reported by Peter Collinson as having flowered first in England in Dr John Fothergill's extensive botanical garden and greenhouses at Upton House, Essex (now West Ham Park), in 1765.

There was on the road a small tree bearing a fruit somewhat bigger than our largest cherries, and of the shape and taste of strawberries, but a little acid.