Coriaria napalensis

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −12.2 °C

Cultivation

Prefers a fairly good loamy soil in a sheltered position in full sun or light shade. This species is not very hardy in Britain, it tolerates temperatures down to about -5°c. However, a medium-size tree seen at Kew in 1990 seemed to have survived many winters without untoward damage[K]. The roots of plants in this genus bear nitrogen-fixing nodules. Whilst much of the nitrogen will be utilized by the growing plant, some of it will become available for other plants growing nearby[K].

Propagation

Seed - sow February/March in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7cm with a heel, July/August in a frame. Fair percentage.

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or used as a beverage.

Medicinal uses

The juice of the bark is used in the treatment of stomach aches. Some cauion is advised - see notes above on toxicity[K].

Material uses

The wood contains a considerable quantity of tannin. The branches are used for making baskets. Wood - hard, beautifully marked, takes a good polish. Used for picture frames and other small articles.

Habitat

Forests and shrubberies, mainly on the outskirts of the forests, 1000 - 2700 metres.

Native range

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