Callicarpa mollis
Family: Verbenaceae
What it is like
Callicarpa mollis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.4 m (7ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 2.4
Where it is found
Rich woods and thickets. In forests from the lowlands to elevations of 500 metres.
E. Asia - Central and S. Japan, Korea.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Fruit. No further details are given.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a sunny position or light dappled shade. Prefers a highly fertile well-drained loamy soil. Plants are only really hardy in the milder parts of Britain and even then they need the protection of a wall. Requires cross-pollination for good fruit production. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - sow February in a greenhouse. Only just cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 1 - 3 months at 18°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter, planting them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood 10cm long, July/August in a frame. High percentage. Cuttings of mature wood of the current season's growth with a heel taken in early spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist