Berries: Schisandra chinensis 'Eastern Prince'

description for "Berries: Schisandra chinensis 'Eastern Prince'"

This shade-loving vine is native to the forests of Northern China and the Russian Far East. It can also be found in Korea and the mountainous regions of Japan. Rarely grown in the West, it is a valuable horticultural crop in China and Russia. The fruit is bright red, about 1/2" across and grows in large clusters. Very tart and with a specific taste and aroma, it is usually sweetened and makes a unique juice and preserves. Very high in Vitamin C (about 7-10 times that of oranges), micro-elements, and shizandrin, a very healthful compound. This variety appears to be self-fertile with both male and female parts. Fruit bearing age usually third year after planting. Grows to about 20 feet and is hardy in zones 4-9. Edited by M.Tate.