Callicarpa pedunculata
Family: Verbenaceae
What it is like
Callicarpa pedunculata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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): 3
Where it is found
Alpine forests.
E. Asia - China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The whole plant is analgesic, antiphlogistic and haemostatic. a decoction is used in the treatment of haemoptysis, haematemesis, nose bleed, haematuria, traumatic bleeding, traumatic injuries and rheumatoid arthritis. The whole plant can be crushed for external applications to wounds.
Analgesic: Relieves pain.
Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.
Haemostatic: Controls internal bleeding.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a sunny position or light dappled shade. Prefers a highly fertile well-drained loamy soil. This species is only likely to be hardy in the very mildest parts of Britain, requiring a warm sunny corner. One report says that it is not frost tolerant, but another gives its native habitat as alpine forests, a habitat that would experience frosts. 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;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 9-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist