PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates urban pollution, compacted soil, and dry conditions
Watering
Water deeply and infrequently; drought-tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; adapts well to temperate continental climates with cold winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate to elliptical, serrated margins, glossy green upper surface, pale pubescent undersides
- Flower: Small, greenish-yellow, inconspicuous axillary clusters
- Fruit: Round, dark purple drupes maturing in autumn; edible when fully ripe
- Stem/Bark: Light gray, smooth when young, developing shallow fissures with age
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth
Composted coffee grounds：Mix fully composted coffee grounds into topsoil in early spring; avoid raw grounds to prevent soil acidity spikesPruning
- Remove crossed, damaged, or diseased branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin dense inner foliage to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration
- Shape young trees to establish a strong, balanced canopy structure
- Remove root suckers to maintain a single trunk form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects
Humans: Non-toxic; ripe fruits are edible for humans in small quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; ripe fruits provide food for birds and small wildlife
