Idesia polycarpa aka Idesia

Idesia polycarpa, or Igiri tree, is a deciduous tree. It belongs to the willow family, Salicaceae. Its native range runs from southern China into temperate East Asia. This includes Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. It grows in hill and mountain forests. Some records place it above 6,560 feet [2,000 metres]. It suits woodland gardens and planting for bold shape.

Garden trees reach about 26–39 feet [8–12 metres] tall. Oregon State records heights up to 50 feet [15 metres]. The crown can exceed 26 feet [8 metres] across. Oregon State gives a spread near 50 feet [15 metres]. Its branches form an open, spreading crown. The tree may take 20–50 years to reach full size. Large green leaves give it much of its garden value. They range from heart-shaped to oval, with small edge teeth. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Their upper faces are deep green and may look glossy. Young leaves can show a red tint. Long leaf stalks often carry a reddish hue and small glands.

Mature trees bloom in summer, with RHS placing bloom in midsummer. The small yellow-green flowers lack petals and have a scent. They hang in long clusters called panicles. Male and female flowers grow on separate trees. A female needs a nearby male for a reliable fruit crop. Pollinated flowers yield round berries in drooping bunches. Their colour ranges from red to dull orange-red or orange-brown. Individual berries measure roughly a third of an inch across. Some fruit stays on the tree into winter.

Grow this tree in sun or light shade. Choose a sheltered site with deep, fairly rich soil. Keep the soil moist while allowing excess water to drain. Acid to neutral soil suits it best. RHS lists clay, loam, and sand as suitable soil types. It gives the tree a UK hardiness rating of H5. PFAF lists USDA zones 4–8; Oregon State cites zone 6. These sources therefore differ on its cold tolerance.

RHS reports few pest or disease problems and little pruning need. Take softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer. PFAF lists the pulpy, many-seeded fruit as edible raw or cooked. It gives the fruit a low food-use rating. It records no known hazards, but provides no pet-specific safety evidence. PFAF lists no known medicinal uses or other practical uses.