Berchemia racemosa

Family: Rhamnaceae

What it is like

A shrub that loses its leaves. It grows 4 m high and spreads 1.5 m across. The stem is erect and the branches are slender. The leaves are oval and taper to the end. They are bright green. The flowers are small and white. The fruit are red berries that turn black as they ripen.

There are 12 Berchemia species.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It is best in light sandy soils. It can be in swamps. It needs a protected sunny position. It is damaged by drought or frost.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Britain, China, Europe, Japan (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The ripe fruit are edible but tasteless.

Edible parts

Fruit, leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown from tip cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Berchemia formosana C. K. Schneid.; and others