Asiatic Sweetleaf, Sapphire-berry

Symplocos paniculata

Physical Characteristics

Symplocos paniculata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft) by 4 m (13ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea, Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - cooked[177]. Used in jams, jellies and sauce[183]. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Ophthalmic Tonic The bark is astringent, cooling and tonic[240]. It is useful in the treatment of menorrhagia, bowel complaints, eye diseases and ulcers[240]. It is also used as a gargle for giving firmness to spongy and bleeding gums[240]. The juice of the bark is applied externally to sprains and muscular swellings[272].

Known Hazards

None known