The Japanesse raison tree is a desiduous flowering tree or shrub in the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae) native to eastern China and Korea. Thegenus name dulcis translates to sweet in reference to it fleshy fruit stalks. This tree is considered invasive in Tx and is naturalizing in NC and VA. It is listed as invasive in several South American countries. It can form dense stands that outcompete natives and disrupt ecosystems. Although able to reach heights of up to 50', this tree typically grows to approximately 30' in height in cultivation, with an upright oval to rounded outline spreading 20 feet. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and a sandy loam but is adaptable to other soils. This tree casts light shade and has gray to gray-brown bark. It has fragrant flowers that are insignificant in the summer. Its stalk elongates and becomes swollen, red and edible after being subjected to frost. At that time, they are edible and have a sweet flavor. Trees do not flower until they reach the age of 3 to 4 years old. The edible fruit has a taste and texture similar to raisins. It is referred to as a fruit, but is actually a swollen receptacle. Each pea-sized fruit contains 3 seeds, which are not likely to ripen in cultivation. They are also fragrant. An extract from the seed, as well as young leaves is used as a honey substitute. Consider planting native trees. See some suggestions to the left. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease issues. Messy fruits
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.