Eurya chinensis
Family: Theaceae
What it is like
Eurya chinensis is an evergreen Tree growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 2.5
Where it is found
Thickets in hilly land or by streams at elevations under 800 metres.
E. Asia - southern China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit. No further details are given. The fruit is about 5mm in diameter. The leaves are used as a tea substitute or to adulterate China tea.
Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Wood - soft, close grained. Used mainly as a fuel.
Fuel: Usually wood, plant materials that have been mentioned as being a good fuel.
Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.
How it is grown
Prefers a moderately fertile free-draining moisture retentive soil in sun or part shade with shelter from cold drying winds. Probably best grown in a well-drained lime-free humus-rich soil. Dioecious, male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.
Propagating it: Seed - sow as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame or sow in early spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 6 - 8cm with a slight heel, July/August in individual pots in a frame. High percentage.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist