Dalbergia hupeana
Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae
What it is like
Dalbergia hupeana is a TREE growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 15
Where it is found
Sunny wild uplands. In forests or among bushes on mountain slope, ravines by streams and woodland slopes at elevations of 800 - 1400 metres.
E. Asia - China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves. Inner bark. A famine food.
Inner bark: the bark that is found just beneath the tough outer bark of trees and shrubs.
Medicine
Rating: 1
Antiphlogistic. Poultice.
Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.
Poultice: A moist, usually warm or hot, mass of plant material applied to the skin in the treatment of burns etc.
Other
Rating: 3
Insecticide. Wood - hard, durable, very strong. It is used to make oil presses, spokes, tool handles etc.
Insecticide: Kills insects.
Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. However, judging by its native range, it is likely to succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Propagating it: Seed -
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Secondary;
Habit: Tree
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
The plant is slightly toxic.