Japanese Raisin Tree
hovenia dulcis
Also known as: ["Raisin Tree","Japanese Raisin Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to East Asia, known for its edible, raisin-like fruit and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus: | Hovenia |
| Botanical Name: | Hovenia dulcis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, adaptable to container growth in colder regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent leaf burn; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize in early spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing which can burn roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth indicates establishment, typically within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy, heading cuts to encourage branching, and removal of crossing or damaged branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage fruiting or flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure deep saturation to encourage root growth, allow excess water to drain away, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or coverings; move potted plants indoors during freezes; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause wilting, or reduce fruit production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, use mulch to retain soil moisture, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHovenia dulcis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant has not been reported to cause toxicity in felines when ingested in normal quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHovenia dulcis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant has not been associated with adverse effects in canines when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHovenia dulcis, commonly known as the Japanese Raisin Tree, is not considered toxic to humans. The fruit, leaves, and bark have been used in traditional medicine and as food sources without significant toxic effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Hovenia dulcis edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and often used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.
Q: Does the Japanese Raisin Tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruit.
Q: Is Hovenia dulcis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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