Hovenia dulcis

Hovenia dulcis Details

Hovenia dulcis, commonly known as the Japanese Raisin Tree, is a deciduous tree that produces unusual, yet very edible seed pods. Clusters of small white flowers in spring give rise to twisted, brown seed pods in autumn. These sweet morsels remain on the tree into winter. The foliage is lush, glossy green, and develops yellow tones in autumn before falling. It grows as an upright, rounded tree to about 10 m tall and 7 m wide, performing best when planted in full sun on a well-drained, sheltered site. It is tolerant of cool climates though late frosts can damage emerging shoots. Hovenia dulcis is commonly grown as a specimen tree, shade tree, or simply as something a little different. Harvest the seed pods when they have turned brown-grey.