Japanese Raisin Tree Seeds

The Japanese Raisin Tree (Hovenia dulcis) is a unique and attractive deciduous tree prized for its unusual, sweet, edible fruit stalks that develop after flowering. Despite its common name, the edible portion is not the fruit itself but the swollen flower stalks, which become sweet and raisin-like when fully mature. Native to East Asia, this hardy tree produces fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators and provides excellent shade with its broad, spreading canopy. It is an outstanding choice for edible landscapes, home orchards, parks, and wildlife gardens.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name - Hovenia dulcis
• Common Name - Japanese Raisin Tree
• Family - Rhamnaceae
• Plant Type - Deciduous flowering tree
• Life Cycle - Perennial
• Native Range - China, Japan, and Korea
• Mature Height - 30–50 feet
• Mature Spread - 25–40 feet
• Growth Rate - Moderate to fast
• USDA Hardiness Zones - 5–9
• Sun Requirements - Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference - Moist, fertile, well-drained soils
• Soil pH - Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
• Water Requirements - Moderate; water regularly during establishment
• Drought Tolerance - Moderate once established
• Salt Tolerance - Low
• Deer Resistance - Moderate
• Wildlife Value - Flowers attract bees and pollinators; fruit stalks are enjoyed by birds and wildlife
• Container Friendly - Suitable only while young
• Landscape Uses - Shade tree, edible landscape, specimen tree, wildlife garden, botanical collections, parks
• Germination Rate - 60–80%
• Pre-Treatment Required - Seed requires 1–2 hours of scarification followed by 60–90 days of cold moist stratification.

Germination Instructions

Scarify the seeds for 1–2 hours to weaken the seed coat and improve water absorption. After scarification, place the seeds in a moist growing medium and cold moist stratify them for 60–90 days in a refrigerator. Once stratification is complete, sow seeds approximately ¼ inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm until germination begins.

Growing Information

• Plant in a location receiving full sun for the best flowering and fruit production.
• Prefers fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
• Water consistently during the first few growing seasons to establish a strong root system.
• Produces fragrant clusters of creamy-white flowers during summer.
• Sweet, edible flower stalks mature in autumn and have a flavor often compared to raisins or pears.
• Requires little maintenance once established.
• Makes an excellent ornamental shade tree with attractive branching and glossy green foliage.
• Tolerates urban conditions better than many ornamental trees.
• Can live for many decades under favorable growing conditions.

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. - Approximately 625 Seeds
• 1/4 lb. - Approximately 2,500 Seeds
• 1 lb. - Approximately 10,000 Seeds