PlantFun
Plant Needs
Characteristics
- Leaf: Thick, leathery dark green leaves with serrated margins; underside covered in rust-colored fuzzy hairs
- Flower: Clusters of small, fragrant white terminal panicle flowers
- Fruit: Round to oblong golden-yellow edible drupes with sweet tangy flesh and large brown seeds
Care Guide
Increase watering during fruit development to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Feed with balanced slow-release fertilizer every 4 weeks during active growth. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of fruit production
Eggshell powder topdressing：Grind dried eggshells into a fine powder, sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the tree base, and gently work into the topsoil to avoid disturbing root systems- Prune in late winter to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches and improve air circulation
- Thin crowded inner branches to increase light penetration for better fruit development
- Trim back overgrown shoots to maintain desired tree shape and size
- Remove suckers growing from the base to direct energy to the main tree and fruit production
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to cyanogenic glycosides in seeds; ingestion can lead to cyanide poisoning symptoms
Humans: Flesh is safe for consumption; seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which may cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes prosperity and good fortune in some East Asian cultural traditions
Usage: Edible fresh fruit, jams, or jellies; ornamental landscape tree for foliage and flower fragrance
