Myrsine semiserrata
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it is unlikely to succeed outdoors except in the mildest areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any well-drained fertile circum-neutral soil in full sun or semi-shade. Plants are very slow-growing. Plants can be polygamous or dioecious. In general, it is best to grow male and female plants if seed is required.
Propagation
Seed - sow late winter or early spring in a warm greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a semi-shaded position 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, 3 - 6cm long with a heel in individual pots, July/August in a frame. Good percentage.
Edible uses
Fruit.
Medicinal uses
The fruit is used as an anthelmintic, especially in the treatment of tape worm. A gum obtained from the plant is used as a warming remedy in the treatment of dysmenorrhoea. A decoction of the leaf is used as a blood purifier.
Material uses
Wood - compact, hard, heavy and handsome.
Habitat
Forests and shrubberies, especially in Nepal, to 2700 metres.
Native range
E. Asia - Himalayas from Pakistan to south-western China.