Torreya nucifera Seeds | Japanese Nutmeg Yew
LATIN NAME: Torreya nucifera
COMMON NAME: Japanese Nutmeg Yew
Plant Profile
Torreya nucifera, commonly known as Japanese Nutmeg Yew, is a handsome, tall, slow-growing, evergreen conifer in the yew family, native to warm forests of Japan. Established plants reach around Twenty metres. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the yew family, Torreya nucifera contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. The Japanese nutmeg yew has a real and distinguished place in the research. The practical point for growers is that this plant has been observed in gardens for so long that its behaviour holds few surprises.
Uses & Benefits
Japanese Nutmeg Yew works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ecologically, the Japanese nutmeg yew is a generous tree of the garden. Its large, fleshy, plum-like seeds are a fine food of birds and wildlife, and its fine, dense, dark-green foliage gives a fine cover and a shelter to birds through the year. Kernels are a food only after proper, careful preparation, and rest of plant is best appreciated as a fine tree. Once it has settled, the workload drops to almost nothing.
Torreya nuts, Fei Zi, are a prized roasted delicacy in China and a classical folk herb; the nutmeg-like kernels command fine prices in mountain markets.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Japanese Nutmeg Yew under ordinary good conditions. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray bright light. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
At around twenty metres, it stays at a scale that suits modest gardens. Start with fresh seed, keep it evenly moist, and the plant does the rest itself.
Related Reading
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