Chinese corktree
StarPhellodendron amurense
Synonyms: Phellodendron amurense var. molle, Phellodendron amurense var. suberosum, Zanthoxylum kibada, Phellodendron nikkomontanum, Phellodendron sachalinense f. longipes, Phellodendron piriforme, Phellodendron amurense f. molle, Phellodendron sachalinense, Phellodendron sachalinense var. suberosum, Phellodendron amurense f. suberosum, Phellodendron insulare, Phellodendron amurense f. insulare, Phellodendron japonicum, Phellodendron amurense var. sachalinense, Phellodendron kodamanum, Phellodendron lavallei, Phellodendron amurense var. lavallei, Phellodendron molle
Western Herbalism Properties
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Botanical Description
Phellodendron amurense, the Amur cork tree or Chinese corktree, is a medium-sized deciduous tree in the family Rutaceae native to northeastern China, Korea, Japan and the Russian Far East. It typically reaches 10 to 20 metres in height with a broad, spreading crown and a thick, deeply furrowed, soft, corky outer bark from which its common and Latin names derive; the inner bark is a brilliant yellow, owing to high concentrations of the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine and related compounds. The leaves are opposite, pinnately compound with 5 to 13 ovate, finely toothed leaflets that emit an aromatic, citrus-like odour when crushed, reflecting the family Rutaceae. Small yellow-green, dioecious flowers appear in panicles in early summer, followed on female trees by clusters of black, drupe-like fruits that persist into winter. In several non-native regions, including parts of eastern North America, it has become invasive in deciduous forests.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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