Symplocos microcalyx
Family: Symplocaceae
What it is like
Symplocos microcalyx is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 4
Where it is found
Subtropical evergreen forests, often along streamlets.
E. Asia - southern Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves. No more details are given.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
We have no specific information for this plant but many species in this genus contain alum and can be used as mordants when dyeing.
Mordant: Used for making a dye more permanent, it also affects the colour of the dye.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in a sunny position in any well-drained fertile neutral to acid soil. Self-sterile, it needs cross-pollination with a different plant in the same species if seed and fruit are to be produced. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed requires stratification and is best sown in a cold frame in late winter, it can take 12 months to germinate. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, July/August in individual pots in a cold frame. Roots are formed in about 4 weeks. Good percentage.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist