The Japanese Raisin Tree (Hovenia dulcis) is a unique and exotic tree known for its edible fruit that resembles raisins and its attractive oriental honey flowers. This pack contains 25 seeds of this interesting species, perfect for growing your own fruit-bearing tree or for adding a touch of exotic beauty to your garden. The tree is also known for its resilience and ability to thrive in a variety of climates.

Key Features:

Edible Fruit:
The fruit of the Japanese Raisin Tree is sweet and raisin-like, ripening in late summer and early fall. The fruit is technically a drupe but is commonly enjoyed in the same way as raisins. It has a honeyed taste, often eaten fresh or dried, making it a perfect addition to your edible garden.

Honey-Like Flowers:
The tree produces fragrant, honey-scented flowers in the spring that attract pollinators like bees, enhancing the beauty and biodiversity of your garden.

Decorative & Functional Tree:
Not only does the Japanese Raisin Tree provide edible fruits, but it also has beautiful, broad leaves and an attractive shape, making it a great ornamental tree for landscapes, yards, or gardens.

Growing Information:

Planting Instructions:

• Soak the seeds in warm water for 24-48 hours to aid germination.
• Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in well-draining, fertile soil.
• Space seedlings approximately 6 feet apart to allow for growth and air circulation.

Soil and Light Requirements:

• Prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
• The Japanese Raisin Tree thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially during the hotter months. Full sunlight will yield the best results for fruit production.

Watering Needs:

• Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season.
• Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions in cooler months or after the tree has matured.

Temperature Requirements:

• The Japanese Raisin Tree is suited to temperate climates and can grow in USDA Zones 5-9. It prefers mild, moderate climates and is moderately tolerant of cold, though frost may damage the fruit.
• Ideal temperature range for this tree is between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C).

Features of Japanese Raisin Tree:

Sweet, Edible Fruit:
The fruit is often compared to raisins due to its sweet taste and dried fruit-like texture when fully ripened. It's commonly used in various recipes, desserts, or simply enjoyed fresh. The tree produces an abundance of fruit, making it a productive addition to any edible garden.

Attractive Ornamental Tree:
The Japanese Raisin Tree grows into a medium-sized tree with a wide canopy of green leaves, which turn shades of yellow in the fall, adding seasonal beauty to your landscape. The springtime honey-scented flowers are also a major attraction for pollinators.

Low Maintenance:
Once established, this tree is relatively low-maintenance and can be grown with minimal care. Its resilient nature makes it a great choice for a variety of soil types and weather conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Edible Fruit for Snacking or Recipes:
The raisin-like fruit is delicious when eaten fresh, dried, or incorporated into various recipes, such as jams, jellies, and baked goods. The fruit is naturally sweet, making it an ideal snack or treat.

Pollinator-Friendly:
The tree’s fragrant flowers are known for attracting bees and other pollinators, making it a great addition to a garden focused on promoting local wildlife.

Beautiful, Low-Maintenance Tree:
Not only is the Japanese Raisin Tree practical for its edible fruit, but it also serves as an ornamental tree with lovely flowers, adding beauty to your garden.

Growing Zones:

• Best suited for USDA Zones 5-9.
• Ideal for temperate regions with moderate climates.

Conclusion:
The Japanese Raisin Tree (Hovenia dulcis) is a fascinating and rewarding tree to grow, offering both edible fruit and beautiful honey-scented flowers. With 25 seeds, you can start cultivating this tree in your own garden or landscape. Its low maintenance nature, along with its ornamental and functional uses, makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking to grow a unique, fruit-bearing tree. Whether you're looking for a fruit tree that produces sweet, raisin-like fruit or simply want to enjoy a lovely, fragrant ornamental tree, the Japanese Raisin Tree is an excellent addition to your collection.