Styrax japonica

Siebold.&Zucc.

Japanese Storax

Styracaceae Edible: Fruit, Oil

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Toki Taira

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Nakatada Wachi

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Nakatada Wachi

Description

Styrax japonica is a deciduous Tree growing to 8 m (26ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

Oil. Fruit - raw. The fruit is about 14mm in diameter.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Where It Grows

Coming Soon

Cultivation

Requires a light lime-free soil in sun or semi-shade. If planted out when young into a planting hole that has been filled with a light lime-free soil the plants will successfully grow into the surrounding soil. Prefers a warm sheltered position with protection from the morning sun. Dormant plants are hardy to about -15°c but the young growth is liable to be damaged by late frosts. A very ornamental plant but it is slow to establish itself and is slow growing. There are some named varieties. The sub-species S. japonica fargesii is stronger growing in Britain. The flowers have an exquisite scent. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

Propagation

Seed - requires stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed requires 3 months warm then 3 months cold stratification. Germination is usually good, prick out the seedlings into individual pots once they are large enough to handle. Overwinter in a greenhouse for the first winter and plant out in late spring. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Layering in autumn.

Other Uses

Beads Oil Wood. The fruits are used as beads in rosaries etc. An oil is obtained from the seed. No further details are given. Wood - fine-grained. Used to make umbrella handles.