Scientific Name
Other Names
Life Form
Family
Ornamental - While the large foliage can be attractive, the inconspicuous flowers might limit its widespread use as an ornamental plant. Due to its drought tolerance it is good for low-water gardens in suitable climates.
Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal
Thrives in the subtropical biome at higher elevations, typically between 2200- 4300 m.
It is versatile plant can grow as either a shrub or a tree. In shrub form it remains relatively compact. As a tree it can reach impressive heights potentially exceeding 10 m.
Stem is strong and woody, providing support for the plant's growth.
Leaves are large and impressive, elliptical or oval-shaped, measuring 11-20 cm wide and 18-30 cm long. The texture is thin and papery. The upper surface is smooth while the lower surface has fine hairs. The base dips down in a heart shape. Most strikingly, the leaves are deeply divided 3-5 times, with these sections often further lobed, reaching nearly halfway or more up the leaf. Each lobe terminates in a pointed or tapering tip, and the margins can be smooth (entire) or coarsely toothed with pointed teeth.
Flowers are relatively small and inconspicuous compared to the leaves. They are obovate or obovate-oblong shaped, measuring 2.5-3.5 cm long and 1.5-1.8 cm wide. The petals have a slightly wavy appearance at the tips.
Fruit is red berries with an ovoid-globose shape, maturing after flowering. This fruit can reach a size of 4-7 cm long and 2.5-4 cm wide. They are fleshy and contain seeds. The seeds themselves are maroon colored and ovoid-triangular in shape.
Flowering: May – June and
Fruiting: July – September.