How to identify Japanese raisin tree (Hovenia dulcis)
Japanese raisin tree, also known as Japanese raisin
Japanese raisin tree features deciduous foliage, with leaves ranging from 5 to 15 centimeters (2 to 6 inches) in length, which display a broad ovate shape with serrated margins. This species is notable for its unique fruiting structure; the edible pseudo-fruits are technically swollen peduncles, turning a reddish color when ripe and offering a sweet flavor, a trait alluded to in its scientific epithet. The actual fruits of japanese raisin tree are small, hard nutlets nestled within the sweet, enlarged stalks. Flowers borne by the plant are small and yellowish-white, typically occurring in loose, open clusters.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Deciduous foliage with broad ovate leaves (5-15 cm, 2-6 inches) and serrated margins.
Edible swollen peduncles turning reddish when ripe, harboring small nutlets within sweet stalks.
Cream-colored, small flowers in dense clusters (0.2 inches, 5 mm) with subtle scent.
Unique fleshy, red capsules, 0.8-1.2 inches (2-3 cm), clustered, succulent, and versatile for culinary uses.
Glossy green leaves (4-6 inches, 10-15 cm) with distinct vein patterns, turning yellow before fall.
The leaves of japanese raisin tree are glossy and green, measuring 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length. They possess a smooth, lustrous surface with a noticeable vein pattern. These leaves may turn yellow before dropping in the fall, though it is not uncommon for them to fall while still green. The elliptical to ovate shape and distinct midrib are key identification features.
The tiny, inconspicuous flowers of japanese raisin tree are cream-colored and form in dense clusters. Each flower is small, with a diameter of approximately 0.2 inches (5 mm). The petals are minute and lack a distinct arrangement. The flowers bloom in early summer, releasing a subtle scent that attracts various insects. These characteristics are crucial for identification and align with their subtle beauty and ecological role.
The fruit of japanese raisin tree is characterized by its unique, fleshy, red capsules, which are known to be edible. These seed-bearing structures can reach a length of 0.8-1.2 inches (2-3 cm) and display a somewhat rounded to elongated shape. The texture of the ripe fruit is succulent and it tends to hang in clusters from the branches, offering a sweet taste when consumed raw. When cooked, the fruit retains its distinct flavor, making it versatile for culinary uses. Despite their allure, the fruits can become a nuisance as they drop, creating litter on the ground beneath the plant.
Scan QR code to download
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Identify a Plant Online
Scientific Classification of Japanese raisin tree
