Cherry prinsepia

Prinsepia utilis

Physical Characteristics

Prinsepia utilis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.5 m (11ft) by 3 m (9ft). It is in flower in February, and the seeds ripen in 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas from Pakistan to W. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Oil Edible Uses: Oil Oil Fruit - raw or cooked[1, 2, 177, 183]. Liked by children[272]. Sloe-like[146], it has rather an astringent flavour[K]. The fruit is up to 17mm long and contains a single large seed[K]. An edible oil is obtained from the seed[2, 51, 105, 146]. It is used in cooking[183, 272].

Medicinal Uses

Eczema Miscellany Rubefacient Skin An oil from the seed is rubefacient[240]. It is applied externally as a treatment for rheumatism and muscular pain caused by hard work[240]. The oil is also applied to the forehead and temples in the treatment of coughs and colds[272]. The heated oilcake is applied as a poultice to the abdomen in the treatment of stomachaches[272]. A paste of this seedcake is used as a poultice to treat ringworm or eczema[272]. The fruit is used in Chinese medicine[129]. We have no more details.

Known Hazards

None known