Schisandra Seeds, Wu-wei-zi (Schisandra chinensis)

Schisandra, Wu-wei-zi (Schisandra chinensis) Deciduous, woody vine. Zones 5-9.

Schisandra 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.