Tassel-berry (Antidesma venosum)

Tassel-berry

Tassel-berry is best known for its edible fruit that could be roughly described as mulberry-tasting. However, it is not used only for nutrition, but also to create a purple-red natural dye. The wood from the tree is harvested and used locally for building huts and as fuel. However, the roots are considered toxic.

Scientific classification

Species

Tassel-berry (Antidesma venosum)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Early summer

Bloom Time

3 m to 10 m

Plant Height

2 m to 4 m

Spread

16 cm

Flower Size

Green

Flower Color

Care Guide for Tassel-berry

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from tropical understoreys, tassel-berry prefers high humidity and moist soil, tolerating brief dry spells. Water every 2-3 weeks to maintain moisture without waterlogging. Ideal for indoors, tassel-berry thrives in ample indirect light, supporting water retention and health during growth periods.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, tassel-berry requires high-nitrogen fertilizer, applied every 2-3 months during the growing season, with reduced doses in dormancy. Avoid over-fertilization by adhering to label rates. Regular fertilization and precise adjustments enhance tassel-berry's health and productivity during tassel-berry seasons.

Pruning: Tassel-berry features lush foliage and small fruits. Prune from early to late winter to reduce stress, focusing on light trimming and removing dead or diseased branches. This practice promotes healthy growth, boosts fruit production, and prevents overcrowding. Use clean, sharp tools to minimize damage.

Propagation: Tassel-berry, a dioecious shrub native to eastern Africa, produces clustered, berry-like fruits. Propagation via semi-hardwood cuttings from a healthy plant, treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-drained mix, is crucial. Maintaining moisture and protection from extremes ensures successful establishment.

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Learn More About Tassel-berry

Sunlight Requirements

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