Ligustrum indicum
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
A very tolerant and easily grown plant, it succeeds in any soil that is not impoverished or water-logged. Grows well in heavy clay soils. This species is notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagation
The seed does not require any pre-treatment and can be sown in the spring in a cold frame. 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, 5 - 10cm with a heel, July/August in a frame. Very easy. Cuttings of mature wood, 20 - 30cm in a sheltered outdoor bed in November/December. High percentage.
Edible uses
The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.
Habitat
Damp gullies, wet oak forests, 1200 - 2700 metres from Uttar Pradesh to Bhutan.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan, Himalayas.