Rhamnus virgatus
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 should succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any reasonably good soil. Often bears the aecidospore stage of 'crown rust' of oats. The species in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed - best sown in the autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed will require 1 - 2 months cold stratification and should be sown as early in the year as possible in a cold frame or outdoor seedbed. Germination is usually good, at least 80% by late spring. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle, and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature wood of the current year's growth, autumn in a frame. Layering in early spring.
Edible uses
Leaves - cooked. A famine food, they are only used when all else fails. A tea is made from the leaves.
Medicinal uses
The fruit is bitter, emetic and purgative.
Material uses
Wood - very hard, close grained. Used only for fuel.
Habitat
Forest undergrowth to 2700 metres.
Native range
E. Asia - Himalayas.