Status in Florida: Not native (introduced)
Native Habitat: Temperate regions of China, Mongolia, and Tibet.
Native State, Country: China
Growing Zones: 5 - 9 (can potentially grow in warmer zones with some shade and adequate moisture)
Size at Maturity: 6 - 10 feet tall, spreading to 3 - 6 feet wide
Phenology: Deciduous shrub
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Fast
Growth Habit: Upright, arching, spreading, somewhat sprawling
Bloom Season: Summer (June - August)
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade (prefers full sun)
Soil Texture: Adaptable, but prefers well-drained soils.
Soil pH: Adaptable (tolerates a wide pH range)
Moisture Requirements: Average to dry. Drought tolerant once established.
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Moderate
Keystone Plant: No (not native)
Recommended Landscape Uses: Edible gardens, hedges, screens, ornamental plantings.
Maintenance Tips: Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage fruit production. Can be trained as a hedge or espaliered.
Considerations: Produces edible berries that are high in antioxidants. Can be invasive in some areas, so it's important to monitor its growth.
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes, can help stabilize soil.
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: Yes, the berries are edible and often consumed dried or fresh. They have a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
Pet Safe: Generally considered safe for pets.
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate
Historical Medicinal Uses: Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for a variety of health benefits.
Florida Native Companion Plant: N/A (not native, but can be grown with other adaptable shrubs like Callicarpa americana (Beautyberry) or Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon Holly))
Wildlife Benefit: Attracts pollinators and birds (who eat the berries).
Caterpillar Host Plant: No
Propagation: Seed, cuttings, suckers
Length of time Seed is Viable: 1-2 years
Best month to Start Seeds: Spring
Seed treatments: No special treatment needed