I’ve been told that the leaf looks coarse or primitive, but I say it has tropical flair. In fact, it is the furthest north-growing member of a very tropical family. The leaves can be over a foot in length and its smooth silvery bark certainly adds to that tropical feel. Very early in the spring deep purple flowers hang like velvety bells, but have a scent only a beetle or fly could love (these are the main pollinators). The fruit are no longer than 6 inches and are very edible, ripening in the fall. We have grown it in more than half-day sun, but we recommend part shade with western protection. In order to get fruit, you’ll need to plant more than one plant because they need cross-pollination for good fruit set.

Environment:  Xeric  Dry/Mesic  Mesic  Wet/Mesic  Hydric

Exposure:  Shade  Part Shade  Morning Sun  Full Sun

Bloom Period:  Spring  Summer  Fall