ARDISIA MACROCARPA

Description

The "Himalayan Coralberry" is a cool growing compact bush from the eastern Himalayas bearing dark green leaves with undulate margins. Profuse, star-shaped, white to pale pink flowers in early summer produce many berries in autumn and throughout winter and early spring, which remain on the plant giving it a very decorative look, making it ideal for growing as a pot plant for indoors, although it can stand mild frosts. Though not usually grown as a fruit crop, the berries, which have have a mild sweet taste, are edible and children are very fond of them.

Sowing Advice

These seeds have already been thoroughly cleaned and cold-stored for several months. They should be sown into well-drained, sandy compost at any time of the year, and covered to their own depth with sand or grit. No artificial heat is needed; the seed tray is best left in a cool spot outside and kept moist. Seeds usually germinate in the spring after a chilling in the cold compost, regardless of when they are sown.

Key Facts