lokao
Rhamnus globosafam. Rhamnaceae
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Pl. B865 — Rhamnus globosa
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IOverview
Overview
Lokao, scientifically known as Rhamnus globosa, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan and parts of China such as North-Central and Southeast regions, including Manchuria. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Standing at about 3 meters tall, lokao is notable for its edible properties, making it a valuable resource in certain areas. Its adaptability to various soil types and sunlight conditions contributes to its widespread presence in its native range.
Quick answers
What is lokao?
Lokao, scientifically known as Rhamnus globosa, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan and parts of China such as North-Central and Southeast regions, including Manchuria. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
What is lokao used for?
Traditionally used for digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of lokao
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Lokao has been traditionally used in Japanese medicine for digestive issues, often prepared as a decoction to soothe the stomach and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that interact with gut motility or reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lokao thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions but may require protection from harsh winters. For propagation, use cuttings or seeds. Regular watering is essential for optimal growth, though it can tolerate some drought once established.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow lokao for the first time
7steps
Start with lokao by planting it in a sunny spot and providing basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A lokao sapling, garden gloves, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant lokao in early spring or late autumn when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant lokao saplings into your prepared hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not soggy during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, water regularly, and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lokao in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Dyeoil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 2 introduced
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaJapan
Broader regions
introduced:Illinois, Missouri
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 (Rhamnaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rhamnaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · b8654d42-64d5-4be5-92ef-ebba07ac3f61
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