Common Name:

General Information

Idesia polycarpa is a deciduous tree that can grow around 8 - 21 metres tall
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food. It is sometimes grown as an ornamental.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - southern China, Japan, Korea.

Habitat

Hills and mountain forests; at elevations above 2,000 metres[, ]. Deciduous broad-leaved forests, needle-leaved and broad-leaved mixed forests; at elevations from 400 - 3,000 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	12.00 m
Pollinators	Insects
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

The dormant plant is hardy to about -15°c, though the tree is somewhat hardier if the wood is thoroughly ripened by a long hot summer[]. The young shoots in spring can be damaged by late frosts.
Prefers a neutral to slightly acid loamy soil, but tolerates a chalky sub-soil if the top soil is deep[]. Succeeds in full sun or semi-shade[].
A very ornamental plant[]. The flowers have a most delicious perfume, which can be wafted far and wide by warm breezes[].
Trees produce fruit regularly at Kew[].
Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if fruit and seed is required. Female plants can produce some fruit in the absence of a male plant[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[, ]. The fruit is a many seeded berry with a pulpy flesh[], it is about 10mm in diameter[]. The bright red fruits grow in grape-like clusters[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse[]. Germination is usually very good[]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their fist two winters. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring, after the last expected frosts and consider giving them some protection from the cold for their first winter or two outdoors[]. Plants cannot be sexed until they flower[].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel, mid summer in a frame. Fair percentage[].
Layering in spring. Takes 12 months[].