Winter Sweet

Chimonanthus praecox

Physical Characteristics

Chimonanthus praecox is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from November to March, and the seeds ripen from May to June. 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 prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: Flowers - thoroughly boiled and then washed[179]. Eaten with oil and salt[177, 183]. The flower petals are used to flavour and scent tea[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antiphlogistic Antirheumatic Sialagogue The flowers and flower buds contain 0.5 - 0.6%.essential oils comprising benzylalcohol, benzyl acetate, linalool, terpineol and indole[266]. They are sialagogue[178, 218]. The flowers are used in the treatment of thirst and depression whilst the essential oil is used to treat colds[266]. The leaves and roots can be used in the treatment of contusions, cuts, haemorrhages, strains, lumbago, rheumatism, numbness and colds[266].

Known Hazards

None known