Platycrater arguta

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Partial shade
Frost limit: −12.2 °C

Cultivation

Prefers a moist position and some shade. Plants are not very hardy in Britain.

Propagation

Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest surface-sowing the seed in a greenhouse in early spring. Do not allow the compost to dry out. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out into their permanent positions in late spring. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 8cm taken at a node or with a heel, July/August in a frame. Good percentage. Layering.

Edible uses

A tea is made from the leaves.

Material uses

A useful and beautiful ground cover plant. An infusion of the leaves is used by Buddhists to wash or baptise statues of the Buddha.

Habitat

Humid rocks.

Native range

E. Asia - China, Japan.