Ligustrum indicum - (Lour.)Merr.
(Lour.)Merr.
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MBG
gbif· cc-by-nc
42.2479
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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Description
Ligustrum indicum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to July. 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 and can grow in heavy clay soil. 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
Coffee. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.
Known Hazards
Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, at least one member of this genus is recorded as being mildly toxic and it is quite possible that other members of the genus also contain toxins.
Distribution
E. Asia - China, Japan, Himalayas.
Where It Grows
TEMPERATE ASIA: China (Anhui Sheng, Fujian Sheng, Guangdong Sheng, Guangxi Zhuangzu Zizhiqu, Guizhou Sheng, Hubei Sheng, Hunan Sheng, Jiangsu Sheng, Jiangxi Sheng, Sichuan Sheng, Yunnan Sheng, Zhejiang Sheng), Hong Kong, Taiwan TROPICAL ASIA: Laos, Vietnam
Cultivation
A very tolerant and easily grown plant, it succeeds in any soil that is not impoverished or water-logged. Grows well in heavy clay soils. This species is notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagation
The seed does not require any pre-treatment and can be sown in the spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 10cm with a heel, July/August in a frame. Very easy. Cuttings of mature wood, 20 - 30cm in a sheltered outdoor bed in November/December. High percentage.
