Sarcandra glabra Seeds | Chloranthus Glaber
LATIN NAME: Sarcandra glabra
COMMON NAME: Sarcandra
Plant Profile
Sarcandra glabra, better known as Sarcandra, is a shrub in the chloranthus family (Chloranthaceae), native to southeast Asia. Sarcandra holds small, white flower heads at stem tips, round, scarlet berries following in bright clusters through winter, and the whole plant carries the fine, neat look of the shaded woodland. It is a plant of shaded, deep, rich, moist, well-drained ground. Pollinating insects take to the flowers at once, adding a little wildlife interest to its garden value. Each of these traits is modest on its own; together they make a garden-worthy plant.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the chloranthus family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Breeders and collectors still work with it, so well-kept seed remains available.
Uses & Benefits
Sarcandra works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Sarcandra is a neat, useful plant of shaded woodland and study collection. It is a neat, useful plant of shaded, deep, rich, moist, well-drained garden. Sarcandra seeds like a fine, gritty mix in a shaded, cool spot with steady moisture. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
Sarcandra, Zhong Jie Feng, is a Chinese herb for infection and joint discomfort, and its relative is the fragrant Chu Lan flower once used to scent teas; its flavonoids are under active study.
Growing from Seed
Raising Sarcandra from seed is straightforward. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Being a shrub, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. Young plants want steady water; older plants take conditions as they come.
Related Reading
Readers interested in Sarcandra frequently explore these as well: