Contents
Description
Decaisnea is a genus of deciduous shrubs or small trees that belong to the family Lardizabalaceae. It is native to China, Nepal, and Bhutan. The plant is also known as blue sausage fruit or dead man’s fingers because of its unique-looking fruit. The fruit of Decaisnea looks like a sausage and is blue-green in color. It has a thick skin with a jelly-like pulp inside that is edible and has a sweet taste with a tart flavor. The plant is grown for its ornamental value and its fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Lardizabalaceae |
| Genus | Decaisnea |
Appearance
Decaisnea is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters tall. The plant has large, pinnately compound leaves that can reach up to 40 cm in length. The leaves are green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, yellow-green flowers that are not very showy. The fruit of Decaisnea is the most distinctive feature of the plant. The fruit is a blue-green sausage-shaped pod that can grow up to 10 cm long and 4 cm in diameter. The fruit has a thick skin that encases a jelly-like pulp that is sweet and tart in flavor.
Care Guide
Decaisnea is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for Decaisnea:
Water
Decaisnea prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize Decaisnea once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
Decaisnea prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
Sunlight
Decaisnea prefers partial shade to full shade. The plant can tolerate full sun but may need extra watering in hot weather.
Hardiness Zones
Decaisnea is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Decaisnea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Decaisnea is native to the Himalayan region of China, Nepal, and Bhutan. The plant grows in moist, shady areas such as forests, stream banks, and mountain slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Decaisnea difficult to grow?
A: Decaisnea is a relatively easy plant to grow. It is low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Q: Can you eat the fruit of Decaisnea?
A: Yes, the fruit of Decaisnea is edible. The fruit has a sweet and tart flavor and is often used in desserts and jams.
Q: Does Decaisnea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Decaisnea is attractive to birds and other wildlife. The fruit of Decaisnea is a food source for many animals.
Q: How often should I fertilize Decaisnea?
A: Fertilize Decaisnea once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Lardizabala
- Akebia
- Stauntonia
References
- “Decaisnea Fargesii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c220
- “Decaisnea Fargesii.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/107652/Decaisnea-fargesii/
- “Decaisnea Fargesii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/24499/i-Decaisnea-fargesii-i/Details
