Contents
Description
Schisandra Sphenanthera, commonly known as Northern Schisandra, is a deciduous woody vine native to China, Korea, and Russia. It belongs to the Schisandraceae family and is a traditional medicinal plant used in Chinese medicine for its adaptogenic, hepatoprotective, and immune system supporting properties. The plant grows up to 10-12 meters in height and has attractive red berries that are used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Illiciales |
| Family | Schisandraceae |
| Genus | Schisandra |
Appearance
Schisandra Sphenanthera has dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and grow up to 8-10 centimeters in length. The plant produces small, fragrant, white or pink flowers that bloom in June and July. The flowers are followed by attractive red berries that are round in shape and grow up to 8-10 millimeters in diameter. The berries are edible and have a sour taste.
Care Guide
Schisandra Sphenanthera requires well-draining soil and prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and requires regular watering during the growing season. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schisandra Sphenanthera is generally pest and disease resistant, but it may be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent pest and disease problems, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. If pest or disease problems occur, treat the plant with a suitable insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Schisandra Sphenanthera is native to China, Korea, and Russia and grows in forests, thickets, and along riverbanks. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Schisandra Sphenanthera?
A: Schisandra Sphenanthera is a traditional medicinal plant used in Chinese medicine for its adaptogenic, hepatoprotective, and immune system supporting properties.
Q: Are the berries of Schisandra Sphenanthera edible?
A: Yes, the berries of Schisandra Sphenanthera are edible and have a sour taste.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Schisandra Sphenanthera?
A: Schisandra Sphenanthera requires well-draining soil and prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and requires regular watering during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Schisandra Sphenanthera?
A: Schisandra Sphenanthera may be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Schisandra Chinensis
- Schisandra Rubriflora
- Schisandra Propinqua
- Schisandra Glabra
References
- Li, T. S. C. (1999). Schisandra: A plant for strengthening the body. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 5(5), 387-390.
- Wang, C. Z., & Yuan, C. S. (2016). Potential role of ginseng in the treatment of colorectal cancer. The American journal of Chinese medicine, 44(01), 15-35.
- Wang, H., Zhang, X., He, Y., & Wang, Y. (2010). Molecular cloning and characterization of a new UDP-glycosyltransferase gene induced by methyl jasmonate from Schisandra chinensis. Plant cell reports, 29(5), 471-478.
