Schisandra Seeds - Wu-wei-zi
(Schisandra chinensis) Deciduous, woody vine. Zones 5-9.
Schisandra, Wu-wei is native to Northern China and has a long time history in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Schisandra berries are adaptogenic, increase apatite and immune function and are drop-dead gorgeous hanging on the vine! Known as the “five-flavoured berry”. As the saliva in your mouth breaks down the berry, you get to taste all the five flavours; sour, sweet, pungent, salty and bitter. Flowers preceding berries are a soft pink and fragrant. Schisandra can be grown on a trellis or arbour.
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Cold Hardiness: Zones 5 - 9
Edible: Yes
Size: Woody Vine
Growth Rate: Medium - Fast
Nitrogen Fixer: No
Native Plant: No
Germination: 50 - 70%
Sun Requirements: Full Sun for maximum fruit. Tolerates partial shade.
Soil Preference: Does well with average, well draining soil.
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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
For best results, sow seeds outdoors in Fall. If sowing indoors…
SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in warm water for 12 hours. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal to 3-4 times seed volume. Place in a plastic bag or container.
STRATIFICATION: 30 days warm/moist (20°C), the top of your fridge is a good spot for this. Next, 90 days cold/moist (5°C). Place plastic bag with seeds and soil in your refrigerator, preferably in a veggie crisper. Inspect periodically for even moisture and germination.
POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds 1/4” deep, ideally in a peat/perlite mix. Alternating soil temperatures during the day (30°C) and night (20°C) can aid germination. Water evenly and regularly.
GERMINATION: Can be slow and erratic. Shade first 2 years.
How To Stratify Your Seeds
*Excited about growing Perennial Vines from seed? Learn more HERE.*
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Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.