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Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Chinese bayberry, Myrica rubra

Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra), also known as yangmei or waxberry, is an evergreen tree native to China and other parts of East Asia. It is widely cultivated for its sweet-tart, juicy red or dark purple fruits, which resemble small plums or raspberries.

Key Features:

Appearance: The tree grows 10–20 meters tall with glossy, lance-shaped leaves.
Fruit: The round, textured berries range in color from pinkish-red to deep purple. They are juicy and sweet with a slightly tart taste.
Flowering & Fruiting: Flowers bloom in early spring, with fruit ripening in late spring to early summer.
Drought & Cold Resistance: Moderately drought-tolerant but prefers warm, humid climates.

Cultivation Tips:

Soil: Prefers well-drained, acidic soil with good organic matter.
Sunlight: Grows best in full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture but should not be waterlogged.
Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain shape and improve fruit production.
Propagation: Typically grown from seeds or grafted for better fruit quality.

Uses:

Culinary: Eaten fresh, dried, or made into juices, jams, and wines.
Medicinal: Used in traditional Chinese medicine for digestion and circulation.
Ornamental: A beautiful shade tree with edible benefits.

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