Eurya japonica

Family: Theaceae

What it is like

Eurya japonica is an evergreen Tree growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. 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): 3

Where it is found

Hill forests in the E. Himalayas, 900 - 1800 metres. Thickets in mountain slopes or valleys at elevations of 300 - 2500 metres in southern China.

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

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. Plants grow much taller in the milder areas of Britain. Protect plants from frost when they are young. The dwarf form that is grown in Britain is quite hardy once it is established. The flowers are malodorous. The trees are pollarded in the Himalayas and the leaves used for leaf manure. 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

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

E. ceylanica. Wight. E. pusilla.