Lithocarpus edulis
Lithocarpus edulisfam. Fagaceae
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Pl. 422A — Lithocarpus edulis
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IOverview
Overview
Lithocarpus edulis, commonly known as Japanese oak or honshingaen, is a deciduous tree belonging to the beech family (Fagaceae). Native to Japan and the Nansei-shoto islands, this tree thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade. Known for its edible seed, which can be enjoyed raw or roasted, L. edulis also serves as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance. The tree can grow up to 9 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Hardy in zones 6-9, L. edulis prefers well-drained conditions and can tolerate partial sun to full sun. Its distinctive features include its ability to grow in a variety of soil types and its preference for moist environments. While not medicinal, the seed of Lithocarpus edulis is a valuable food source, making it both an edible and ornamental plant.
Quick answers
What is Lithocarpus edulis?
Lithocarpus edulis, commonly known as Japanese oak or honshingaen, is a deciduous tree belonging to the beech family (Fagaceae). Native to Japan and the Nansei-shoto islands, this tree thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lithocarpus edulis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 9 meters tall. For propagation, seeds are the method to use. Ensure the plant has adequate moisture and well-draining to slightly clayey soils for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Lithocarpus edulis for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Lithocarpus edulis in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, potting mix suitable for trees, a container if starting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring or fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, ensuring it's light, medium, or heavy as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start seedlings indoors about 8 weeks before the last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and provide partial shade to protect young plants from intense sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced tree fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using unsuitable soil, neglecting pruning, and not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seed of Lithocarpus edulis is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often prepared by roasting to enhance its flavor. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they are not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 422a8525-a12f-4b87-9342-d48de7f4db67
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