Grewia oppositifolia

Family: Tiliaceae

What it is like

Grewia oppositifolia is a deciduous Shrub. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. 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): 0

Where it is found

Foothills of the N.W. Himalayas to 1800 metres.

E. Asia - Himalayas.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Fruit - raw or cooked. A pleasant acid taste. The fruit is about the size of a pea.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 2

A fibre is obtained from the bark, it is used in paper and rope making but is not very durable. The fibres are 1 - 1.6mm long. Wood - tough and elastic but with a very unpleasant odour when first cut. It is used for making oar shafts, tool handles etc.

Fibre: Used for making cloth, rope, paper etc.

Paper: Related to the entry for Fibre, these plants have been specifically mentioned for paper making.

Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.

How it is grown

Succeeds in most soils. This species is not very hardy in Britain, preferring hotter summers than are usually experienced here. Plants are often cultivated in the Himalayas.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in late winter in a cold frame. 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. Layering.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Shrub

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

G. optiva. Drummond.