Lithocarpus edulis

Physical Characteristics

Lithocarpus edulis is an evergreen Tree growing to 9 m (29ft 6in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). 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.

Distribution

E. Asia - C. and S. Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - raw or cooked[123, 177, 183]. Not of a good taste[105]. The poor taste is probably due, at least in part, to the presence of tannins. These can be removed by soaking the seed in water for a few days, changing the soak water regularly. The process can be speeded up by grinding the seed into a powder prior to soaking[K]. The seed is an acorn about 25mm long and 8mm wide[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known