Ardisia crispa

Notes

Cultivation

Prefers a well-drained humus rich soil in partial shade in a position sheltered from cold drying winds^[3]. We are not sure if this plant is hardy outdoors in Britain. One report says that it is hardy in zone 7 (tolerating temperatures down to between -10 and -15°c) but then goes on to suggest that it is best grown in pots or tubs outdoors and moved into a cold greenhouse in the winter^[3]. There are some named varieties, selected for their ornamental value^[3]. The plant has creeping rhizomes^[4]. There has been some confusion between this species and A. crenata, the name Ardisia crispa was misapplied by de Candolle to Ardisia crenata^[4].

Propagation

Seed - best harvested when it is ripe in the winter and sown immediately in a greenhouse^[5]. Sow stored seed as early in the year as possible. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a shady part of the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, once the plants are 20cm or more tall. Cuttings of half-ripe wood in summer^[3]. Grow on in cool, shaded humid conditions until well rooted^[3].

Range

E. Asia - S. China, Japan, India.

Habitat

Woods in low mountains, C. and S. Japan^[2]. Mixed or broad-leaved forests, damp places, bamboo woods, hillsides and valleys at elevations of 100 - 2500 metres^[4].

Known hazards

None known

Edible uses

Leaves - raw. Used in salads^[1].

Material uses

None known

Medicinal uses

The root is antidotal and diuretic^[1]. An infusion is pectoral^[1]. The plant is crushed and applied to scurf, it is also applied to the ears in the treatment of earache^[1].