Ardisia crispa
Ardisia crispa
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Pl. 1F98 — Ardisia crispa
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IOverview
Overview
Ardisia crispa, a member of the family Myrsinaceae, is native to regions including Assam, Cambodia, China South-Central and Southeast, East Himalaya, Japan, Korea, Laos, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This evergreen shrub thrives in partial sun or shade, requiring moist conditions and adaptable soil types such as light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 6-9, it grows to a height of about 1.2 meters. Known for its edible leaves, A. crispa is valued both for its ornamental appeal and culinary uses in the native range. One distinctive feature is its light green, glossy foliage that adds a vibrant touch to gardens or natural landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Ardisia crispa?
Ardisia crispa, a member of the family Myrsinaceae, is native to regions including Assam, Cambodia, China South-Central and Southeast, East Himalaya, Japan, Korea, Laos, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ardisia crispa thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. For propagation, use the leaves as an edible part of the plant.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Ardisia crispa for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and low-maintenance approach to growing Ardisia crispa.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a pot, good quality soil, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure your pot has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a small plant into a larger pot or directly in the garden. Sow seeds in moist soil and cover lightly.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place it in partial shade to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide light shade and keep the soil moist but well-drained.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Leaves can be harvested for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, placing in full sun, using unsuitable soil types, neglecting regular watering.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Ardisia crispa are edible and can be used fresh or cooked in various dishes. They are often prepared by steaming or boiling before consumption. Skip the raw use as it may not be palatable due to their texture.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 11 native· 2 introduced
Asia8 regions
native (8)CambodiaChinaIndiaJapanLaosSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, Nansei-shoto
introduced:Windward Is., Queensland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1f98c258-e839-4457-9734-e9cc783e4b8b
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