Japanese Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis umbellata)

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

Rhaphiolepis umbellata is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 2.5 m (8ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from September to October. 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 and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed - used as a flour. A famine food, they are only used when all else fails. — Seed - used as a flour.; A famine food, they are only used when all else fails.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets near the seashore, C. and S. Japan. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)