Myrica rubra
Yangmei
Myrica rubra
Myrica rubra or Yangmei, is one of the most hyped up fruits going around right now. Yangmei is a highly treasured fruit that is found in the Guangxi and Guangdong regions of China into the Philippines and Korea. This species is found growing on mountainous slopes in elevations ranging from 300-5,000 feet. The fruit is so popular in China that apparently the amount of acreage dedicated to growing it is double that of the acreage dedicated to Apples in the US! This fruit is highly sought after and can be found, grown under the Calmei label, in California for $55 USD per pound!
In China, there are a few cultivars that are common throughout commercial markets. A few of them are; Biqi, Dongkui and Black Peak. These varieties have been introduced into the US and are being grown mostly by home collectors. Calmei produces a few trademarked varieties; Eastern Giant, Purple Pearl, and Rose.
The plants are dioecious meaning that female and male flowers are on separate plants. Males will be required for pollination and plants usually do not show gender until they have reached maturity usually 3+ years. If you are interested in genetic testing, you can reach out to Marta at, https://reallygoodplants.com/ . She will confirm the gender of the plants.
Now is a great opportunity to get in on the Yangmei craze and get that much closer to having your very own, very delicious fruit.
Family: Myricaceae
Name: Myrica rubra
Common Name / Native Name: Yangmei
Range: Guangdong, Guangxi, Philippines, Korea; Mountainous regions from 300-5000 feet
Sun: Full sun/part shade
Height: 30+ feet
Width: 30 +feet
Foliage: Lanceolate, light green foliage with slight serrations
Flower: Inconspicuous racemes of small red flowers
Fruit: Large deep red to pink golf ball sized fruits with a pebbly appearance
Soil Type/ pH: Tolerates higher pH soils
USDA Climate Zones: 8b+
Cold Hardiness: Undetermined but capable of handling frosts and occasionally snow
Edibility: An incredibly delicious and highly sought after fruit. Great eaten out of hand.
Age to maturity:
5+ years
Sources:
http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:585602-1