About
Long, hanging clusters of small, perfumed yellow-green flowers are produced on mature trees in midsummer. A deciduous tree with an open, branching habit and large, heart-shaped, slightly toothed, glossy green leaves, held on reddish stems and sometimes tinted red when young. If pollinated, these are followed by hanging clusters of round red berries on female trees, which sometimes persist into winter.
About the genus
Idesia comprises a group of plants, ranging from herbaceous perennials to shrubs or small trees. Species within the genus display a variety of growth habits and are cultivated for their decorative or practical qualities
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
Native toS China to Temp E Asia
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, neutral to slightly acid soil in full sun or light shade. Female trees need a male tree nearby to produce berries reliably
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or by semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free