Helwingia
Helwingia japonica

Family: Helwingiaceae

What it is like

A shrub which loses its leaves. It grows 1-3 m tall and spreads 1.5 m wide. Male and female flowers are on separate plants. The leaves are narrowly oval and olive green. The leaves are alternate and have teeth. The flowers appear on the leaves. The male plants have 12 small greenish-white star shaped flowers. Female flowers occur singly. The fruit is fleshy. It is black. The fruit are on the surface of the leaves.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. They do best in the sun. They need moist soil. It suits hardiness zones 8-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Bhutan, Britain, Canada, China, Europe, Himalayas, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, North America, SE Asia, Taiwan

How it is used for food

The young leafy shoots are eaten. They are blanched in hot water then soaked in cold water before cooking.

Edible parts

Flowers, leaves

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by seed or cuttings. Male and female bushes are needed for seed.

Its other names

Local names

Hana-ikada, Huo tie tie du, Yeshanghua

Synonyms

Helwingia ruscifolia Willd. [Illegitimate]; Osyris japonica Thunb.; and others