Prinsepia sinensis is a shrub or small tree that produces edible red fruit. Native to China, this plant is part of the Prinsepia genus, which belongs to the Rosaceae family. Key selling points include its unique, sweet and sour fruit and its ability to thrive in open, sunny areas.
Prinsepia sinensis typically grows to a height of 1.5-2 meters, with a light gray or brownish bark that peels off in longitudinal stripes. Young shoots have dark, smooth bark covered in slightly flaky, glossy skin. The leaves are lanceolate or oblong-ovate, measuring 5-8 cm in length and 1.5-3 cm in width, with entire or slightly crenate edges. The flowers are yellow, measuring about 15 cm in diameter, with a delicate aroma and 2-4 in axillary bunches. The fruits are spherical or ovoid bright red drupes, 1.5-2 cm in diameter, with sweet and sour pulp, and a flat stone with a characteristic grooved-tubercular surface.
Prinsepia sinensis is native to China, growing in open, sunny areas with light, breathable, and fertile soil. It thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-7, tolerating temperatures as low as -34°C.
Prinsepia sinensis has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit is edible and has a sweet and sour taste. The plant is also used as an ornamental shrub in gardens, valued for its unique flowers and red fruit.
Perennial: Y