Chinese Nutmeg Tree (Torreya grandis)

Family: Cephalotaxaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Torreya grandis is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft 0in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed - roasted. An edible oil is obtained from the seed. — An edible oil is obtained from the seed.

Habitat & North American Range

Woodlands, 1000 - 1600 metres. Mountains, open valleys, often by streams, on yellow, red, and dark soils at elevations of 200 - 1400 metres. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)