Wholesale Schisandra

01.
A Bit of Botany

a little botanical information on schisandra

description
Schisandra chinensis is a deciduous woody climbing vine of the Schisandraceae family.

The schisandra vine will grow to 29 feet or more. The species is dioecious—and therefore flowers on a female plant will only produce fruit when fertilized with pollen from a separate male plant. However, the "Eastern Prince"is a hybrid selection which produces perfect flowers and is self-fertile.

The schisandra vine's flowers are similar in form to the peony. They are four to five inches across and are pure white, and sit in a ruffled collar of green-and-white variegated leaves. Only the new leaves surrounding the blossoms are variegated; along the stem the leaves are solid green, grouped in threes, and slightly heart shaped.

The blossoms are lightly fragrant and on the female plants are followed by brownish red berries.

common names & nomenclature
Schisandra berries are commonly called běi wǔ wèi zi. This common name translates to “five flavor berry.” Presumptively this is because its berries possess all five basic flavors: salty, sweet, sour, pungent (spicy), and bitter.

Also known as:
běi wǔ wèi zi, five flavor berries, wu wei zi, chinese schisandra, chinese mongolavine, magnolia vine

02.
Where in the World

habitat and range for schisandra

Schisandra chinensis is native to forests of Northern China and the Russian Far East.

03.
Cultivation & Harvesting

considerations for growing and harvesting schisandra

climate
Schisandra plants require conditions of moderate humidity and light. The plant grows in mixed forests, especially on the margins, and is also found by streams and brooks in part shade.

soil
Prefers a moist, well-drained sandy soil.

growing
Sow seeds in the autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed will do best if pre-soaked for 12 hours in warm water in the spring. They can then be sown in a greenhouse. Germination can be slow and erratic. Transplant out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in light shade in the greenhouse for their first 2 years. Plant Chinese schisandra out into their permanent locations in early summer.

harvesting
Schisandra fruit is harvested after the first frosts and sun-dried for later use.

preserving
Store dried schisandra berry and schisandra berry powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

04.
The Rest of the Story

additional information

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis), also known as the "five-flavor fruit," is a woody deciduous vine native to the forests of Northern China and the Russian Far East. It is unique in the botanical world because its berries are said to possess all five basic flavors: salty, sweet, sour, pungent, and bitter. This complex sensory profile has made it a foundational element of East Asian botanical traditions for centuries.

Historically, Schisandra was documented in ancient herbals as a "superior" botanical and was frequently used by hunters and travelers as a traditional companion for long journeys. In these historical contexts, the dried berries were often prepared as a decoction, simmering them slowly to incorporate their unique constituents into a deep red tea. Today, Schisandra is available in various forms, including whole dried berries, concentrated liquid extracts, and finely ground powders.

In botanical traditions, Schisandra is often included in custom tea blends and seasonal tonics. It is also utilized as a component in traditional topical preparations. Because Schisandra is a potent botanical with a long history of specialized use, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding it to your daily routine. This is particularly relevant for individuals with specific health considerations or those taking other medications.