Magnolia Berry

A medicinal plant from Northern China, Schisandra chinensis is also called Five-Flavour Berry from its odd taste, which combines sweet, salty, bitter, sour and spicy. The berries are said to be anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic and rich in anti-oxidants and are used in traditional medicine to fight ageing and fatigue. Magnolia berry is a hardy, deciduous, woody vine growing at a moderate rate to 30’/ 9m. It thrives in partial shade and humus-rich soil, and is thus ideal as a crop for forest gardening. The leaves are mid-green, almost heart-shaped and in groups of three. Small, fragrant flowers appear in spring, followed by clusters of brilliant red berries. 

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Moist but well drained, humus-rich soil
Position: Partial shade
Pick: Autumn, as soon as fully ripe
Keep: Will keep if dried
Hardiness: Very hardy
Pollination: Need male and female for fruit – plant several plants to ensure pollination
Uses: Medicinal