Hovenia: The Sweet-Stalked Curiosity That’s Making Waves in American Gardens
If you’ve ever wondered about that unusual tree with the twisty, sweet-tasting fruit stalks, you might be looking at a hovenia. This intriguing plant has been quietly establishing itself in certain parts of the United States, bringing a taste of East Asia to American landscapes.
What Exactly Is Hovenia?
Hovenia is a perennial shrub that can grow quite impressively under the right conditions. Don’t let the shrub label fool you – this woody plant typically reaches 13-16 feet in height, though it can stretch taller in ideal environments. What makes hovenia particularly interesting is its multi-stemmed growth pattern, with several stems emerging from or near the ground level.
The plant’s claim to fame isn’t just its size, but its unique fruiting habit. The fruit stalks themselves become thick, curved, and surprisingly sweet – a characteristic that has earned it attention from gardeners looking for something truly different.
Where You’ll Find Hovenia Growing
As a non-native species, hovenia has established populations in North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. It’s worth noting that this plant reproduces on its own in these areas without human intervention, showing its ability to adapt to various American growing conditions.
Should You Plant Hovenia in Your Garden?
This is where things get interesting. Hovenia occupies a unique middle ground – it’s not native to North America, but it’s also not currently classified as invasive in most areas. Here are some considerations:
Reasons You Might Want Hovenia:
- Unique conversation starter with its unusual sweet fruit stalks
- Relatively hardy perennial that can handle USDA zones 5-9
- Provides food for pollinators with its small flowers
- Low maintenance once established
- Interesting specimen for collectors of unusual plants
Reasons to Think Twice:
- It’s not native, so it won’t provide the same ecosystem benefits as indigenous plants
- Can self-seed and spread beyond your intended planting area
- Takes up space that could support native wildlife more effectively
Growing Hovenia Successfully
If you decide to give hovenia a try, here’s what you need to know:
Growing Conditions
Hovenia is surprisingly adaptable. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and isn’t particularly picky about soil types, as long as drainage is adequate. This flexibility is part of what makes it successful in its adopted American homes.
Planting and Care Tips
- Choose a location with plenty of space – remember, this can become a substantial shrub or small tree
- Plant in well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Water regularly during the first growing season to help establishment
- Once established, hovenia is relatively drought-tolerant
- Pruning can help maintain desired shape and size
- Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for much of the continental United States
Consider Native Alternatives
Before planting hovenia, consider these native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems:
- American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) for unique edible fruits
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier species) for multi-season interest
- Native elderberries (Sambucus canadensis) for wildlife value
- Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) for shade tolerance and wildlife benefits
The Bottom Line
Hovenia represents an interesting case study in non-native plants. While it’s not aggressively invasive, it’s also not contributing to native ecosystems the way indigenous plants would. If you’re drawn to its unique characteristics, just be mindful of its spreading potential and consider whether a native alternative might serve your garden – and local wildlife – even better.
Whatever you choose, remember that every plant in your garden is a choice that ripples outward, affecting everything from soil microbes to migrating birds. Make it count!
