Phillyrea latifolia

Physical Characteristics

Phillyrea latifolia is an evergreen Tree growing to 8 m (26ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

S.E. Europe to W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - olive-like[2]. It is possibly edible[105]. The fruit is an ovoid drupe about 6mm in diameter with a single seed[200].

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Emmenagogue Mouthwash Diuretic, emmenagogue. Also used as a mouthwash[46, 61].

Known Hazards

None known