Rhamnus grandiflora
C.Y.Wu. ex Y.L.Chen.
Description
Rhamnus grandiflora is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft) by 4 m (13ft). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
This species produces large crops of blackcurrant-sized fruits regularly at Kew and other sites. They have a reasonable flavour and are worthy of further investigation into potential edibility. The fruit is 3 - 5mm in diameter.
Known Hazards
Although no specific mention of toxicity has been found for this species, there is the suggestion that some members of this genus could be mildly poisonous.
Distribution
W. Asia - Caucasus to N. Iran.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species but it is growing well at the Hillier Arboretum in Hampshire and seems very healthy. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any reasonably good soil. The species in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed - best sown in the autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed will require 1 - 2 months cold stratification at about 5° and should be sown as early in the year as possible in a cold frame or outdoor seedbed. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle, and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature wood of the current year's growth, autumn in a frame. Layering in early spring.
