Mallotus japonicus Seeds | East Asian Mallotus
LATIN NAME: Mallotus japonicus
COMMON NAME: East Asian Mallotus, Food Wrapper Plant, Akamegashiwa
Plant Profile
Mallotus japonicus, better known as East Asian Mallotus, is a shrub in the spurge family, native to China. In good conditions it grows to around Five metres. Its appeal to pollinating insects adds a second, ecological layer to its ornamental one. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the spurge family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. For a shrub of such usefulness, the East Asian mallotus has a steady and growing record of research. It is the kind of species that plant scientists reach for when they need reliable material for propagation and selection studies.
Uses & Benefits
East Asian Mallotus works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ecologically, the East Asian mallotus is a generous shrub of the hills. Its small flowers feed bees and insects, and its clusters of capsules feed birds, while its large, soft leaves give cover and shelter, and it is a familiar presence in fields and waysides of the eastern Asia. Its economic value is real and cultural. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
Mallotus species are Asian trees with folk records for liver and skin remedies; the kamala dye tree relative yields an orange-red traditional dye and anthelmintic resin.
Growing from Seed
Raising East Asian Mallotus from seed is straightforward. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide bright light. Move strong seedlings into individual pots, keep them in good light, and set them out when the weather and their size agree.
Our Take
East Asian Mallotus repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
More species in the same orbit as East Asian Mallotus: