Leather Wood (Dirca palustris)

Family: Thymelaeaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Dirca palustris is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in March. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Rich deciduous or mixed woods in moist situations, often on calcareous soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)