Young Japanese Currant Tree | Hovenia dulcis

Edible Fruits

The Hovenia dulcis, also known as the Japanese Raisin Tree, is a remarkable sight with its edible fruits, which are swollen flower stalks.

Leaf Color and Shape

The leaf of the Hovenia dulcis is dark green, heart-shaped, and sits on a remarkably long petiole.

Flowering

In the months of June to August, the Hovenia dulcis blooms with fragrant, white flower clusters.

Fruits

After flowering, the uniquely shaped fruits appear on the tree, which are edible and taste like raisins/currants. These fruits ripen into the autumn, when they can be eaten.

Location

The Hovenia dulcis prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil in a sunny location. Too much water will cause the tree to die.

Frost Sensitivity

In the first years after planting when the tree is still young, it is sensitive to frost. It is advisable to cover it or, if it is in a pot, to move it indoors.

Diseases and Pests

The tree is not very susceptible to diseases and pests. Regular rejuvenation pruning is necessary for good fruiting, as the tree bears its fruits on the short shoots of the previous year.

How to plant the tree?

1. Determine the final location of the tree and ensure it is free from cables, debris, old plants, and other obstacles that may hinder the tree's growth.
2. Dig a planting hole that is twice the width of the root ball. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the planting hole and mix the excavated soil with (organic) garden soil or planting substrate.
3. Adjust the planting hole to the height where the root ball fits and firmly press the soil.
4. Fill the planting hole with water and wait for it to settle. Check if the root ball is sufficiently moist.
5. Place the tree or plant in the planting hole. It is extremely important that the tree is not planted too deep, as this can cause root rot.
6. Insert a tree stake or bamboo stake firmly into the ground on the side of the tree where the most wind comes from.
7. Now, place the watering ring or create a mound of soil around the tree so that water can seep into the ground.

Why Choose a Young Tree from Amitis

• Easy to plant yourself due to the compact size and light weight
• Conveniently delivered to your home in a sturdy packaging
• Experience the growth and development of your own tree
• Easy to maintain
• Cultivate the size and growth form you are looking for
• Attain mature size within a short time
• Can be planted year-round as everything is delivered in pots
• No root loss and better chances of establishment as everything is pot-grown
• Cost-effective purchase
• Fresh, healthy plants directly from the grower

Questions?

Want to know more about pruning? Read our page on tree maintenance! Feel free to contact us; we are happy to assist!