Schisandra

Description

Schisandra is a woody vine native to China, Korea, and Russia. It is commonly known as the five-flavor berry due to its sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent taste. Schisandra belongs to the family Schisandraceae and is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a tonic for liver health, stress relief, and anti-aging. It is also consumed as a food due to its nutritional value and unique flavor.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Schisandra is a climbing vine that can grow up to 30 feet long. It has thin, twining stems with heart-shaped leaves that are 3-5 inches long. The leaves are dark green on top and pale green on the bottom. Schisandra produces small, fragrant flowers that are usually white or pink and bloom in late spring or early summer. The fruit of Schisandra is a small, round berry that is red when ripe and contains one or two seeds.

Care Guide

Schisandra is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade, but can also grow in full sun. Schisandra should be watered regularly, but not over-watered as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring. Schisandra is hardy to USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Schisandra is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and powdery mildew. These can be controlled with appropriate insecticides and fungicides.

Habitat

Schisandra grows naturally in forests and woodland areas in China, Korea, and Russia. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Schisandra can also be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Schisandra be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Schisandra can be grown in containers as long as they are at least 15 inches deep and 20 inches wide.

Q: Is Schisandra deer-resistant?

A: Yes, Schisandra is deer-resistant due to its bitter taste.

Q: Can Schisandra be propagated by cuttings?

A: Yes, Schisandra can be propagated by softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall.

Q: How are Schisandra berries used in traditional Chinese medicine?

A: Schisandra berries are used as a tonic for liver health, stress relief, and anti-aging. They are also believed to improve cognitive function and physical endurance.

Related Plants

• Kadsura
• Illicium
• Sassafras
• Asimina

References

• Bensky, D., & Gamble, A. (1993). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica.
• Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs.
• Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Schisandra chinensis.