Common Name:

General Information

Ostryopsis davidiana is a much-branched, deciduous shrub of rounded habit, growing up to 3 metres tall. The plant suckers at the base[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food and source of materials. It is a pioneer species that is commnly planted as a soil stabilizer in China[].
Ostryopsis davidiana is a small shrub that is widespread across northern China. Although the population size is not known, it is believed to be common and has no major reported threats. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2016)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - northern to central China (Gansu, Hebei, Liaoning, Nei Mongol, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Sichuan.)

Habitat

Sparse forests, thickets and hillsides; at elevations from 800 - 2,800 metres[, ]

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Shrub
Height	2.50 m
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Ostryopsis davidiana is a moderately cold-hardy plant, being able to tolerate temperatures down to around -20°c when fully dormant[].

The male catkins are produced from the joints of the old wood, whilst the female inflorescence is produced at the ends of the new shoot of the year[]

Edible Uses

An oil obtained from the seeds can be used for food[].

Medicinal

None known

Agroforestry Uses:

Ostryopsis davidiana is a pioneer species, which plays an important role in restoring the local ecosystem after a disturbance. It is commonly planted for erosion control[, ], and can also be used as a pioneer when restoring native woodland[].

Other Uses

Tannins can be obtained from the bark and the leaves[].

An oil extracted from the seeds can be used in making soap[].

The branches are used for making agricultural tools[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is harvested in autumn in a cold frame[]. Germinates in late winter or spring. Stored seed should be pre-soaked in warm water for 48 hours and then given 2 weeks warm followed by 3 - 4 months cold stratification[]. Germinates in 1 - 6 months at 20°c[]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame or sheltered place outdoors for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer[].
Layering in autumn. Easy, it takes about 6 months[, ].
Division of suckers in early spring.