Euodia fraxinifolia — Edible Plant

Summary

Euodia fraxinifolia is a deciduous tree reaching 15 m tall, hardy to UK zone 10 and frost tender. It grows at a moderate rate with hermaphrodite flowers. The tree adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils across mildly acidic to basic pH ranges. It tolerates semi-shade or full sun and prefers moist growing conditions.

Description

Euodia fraxinifolia is a deciduous tree reaching 15 m tall, hardy to UK zone 10 and frost tender. It grows at a moderate rate with hermaphrodite flowers. The tree adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils across mildly acidic to basic pH ranges. It tolerates semi-shade or full sun and prefers moist growing conditions.

Edible Uses

The fruit is cooked and used in chutney, though it has a disagreeable aromatic smell. The red fruits are about 12mm in diameter. Seeds are also used to add flavour to lentil soups, fresh pickles, vegetables, and curries. An oil extracted from the seeds is used for lighting, while an aromatic oil from the fruit is used in perfumery.

Medicinal Uses

The plant is used as an antipyretic. The fruit specifically is antipyretic and is also used in the treatment of dysentery.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Britain, Europe, Nepal,

Propagation

Sow seed in February in a greenhouse. Germination rates are variable. When seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and grow on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out into permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts, and provide some cold protection during their first winter outdoors. Alternatively, take cuttings of half-ripe wood — preferably from plants forced in a greenhouse — 5–8cm with a heel, from June to August in a warm greenhouse. Success rates are fair to good.