Hovenia dulcis Japanese raisin tree (Rhamnaceae) Deciduous tree

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Hovenia dulcis
Japanese raisin tree
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Hovenia dulcis plant species is found in E. Asia - China to the Himalayas. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Japanese raisin tree. Some home gardeners know the variety as H. acerba. H. inequalis.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Hovenia dulcis
Common Name:  Japanese raisin tree
Family:  Rhamnaceae
Author:  Thunb.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  10   Mature Width:  7

Habitat:  Plains and mountains to 2000 metres in W. China[109].

Cultivation Notes: Grows well in a fertile sandy loam in a sunny position[200]. Although the dormant plant is hardy to at least -15°c in Britain, it really prefers a continental climate to fully ripen its wood, it is then hardy to about -25°c[200]. The shoot tips are sometimes damaged by winter frosts in Britain[1] and the young growth in spring can also be damaged by late frosts[K]. The Japanese raisin tree is said to grow well in Cornwall[59], though our experience of this plant so far (1995) is that it is very difficult to establish. Perhaps older plants are as hardy as the reports above suggest, but younger plants are quite tender and often die in their first few winters outdoors[K]. The Japanese raisin tree is cultivated for its edible fruit in Japan. The small white flowers are scented and are produced in terminal cymes[245].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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