The term “raisin bush” often sparks curiosity, as true raisins come from dried grapes. However, several other plants are commonly called “raisin bushes” due to their fruit’s resemblance in appearance, texture, or flavor to actual raisins. These plants offer unique characteristics and edible qualities, distinct from grapevines. This article explores these intriguing plants, their cultivation, culinary uses, and how they differ from grapevines.
Identifying Common “Raisin Bush” Plants
Two prominent plant species frequently associated with the “raisin bush” moniker are Grewia occidentalis and Hovenia dulcis. Grewia occidentalis, often called Crossberry, is a scrambling deciduous shrub or small tree native to Southern Africa, growing up to 3 meters tall. Its dark green leaves are shiny and have three distinct veins from the base. In summer, it produces small, star-shaped flowers ranging from purple to pink.
Following flowering, Grewia occidentalis develops distinctive four-lobed fruits, which turn reddish-brown or light purple when ripe. These berries often remain on the plant for extended periods.
Hovenia dulcis, known as the Japanese Raisin Tree, is a larger deciduous tree native to East Asia, growing up to 30 meters. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves are large and pointed.
The unique edible part of the Japanese Raisin Tree is not its small, inedible fruit, but rather the fleshy, swollen pedicels or fruit stalks that develop after its inconspicuous flowers. These pedicels swell and turn reddish-brown when ripe, having a sweet flavor and a texture often compared to raisins.
Cultivation and Care for Raisin Bushes
Cultivating Grewia occidentalis, the Crossberry, involves providing full sun to partial shade. This adaptable plant thrives in well-draining, composted soil. While drought-hardy once established, regular watering is beneficial for young plants, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. It tolerates light frost and grows in USDA hardiness zones where temperatures do not severely drop.
For Hovenia dulcis, the Japanese Raisin Tree, full sun exposure is preferred. It grows best in humus-rich, well-draining loamy soil that retains some moisture. Regular watering is important, ensuring the soil partially dries out between applications. This tree is generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9, though young trees may need winter protection.
Neither plant typically suffers from serious pest or disease issues. For Grewia occidentalis, a balanced fertilizer applied during the growing season promotes healthy growth. Pruning for both species is primarily for shaping and maintaining plant health; for the Crossberry, this should be done after flowering, while the Japanese Raisin Tree benefits from pruning during its dormant season.
Edible Uses and Benefits of Raisin Bush Fruits
The fruits of Grewia occidentalis, the Crossberry, are widely consumed. These four-lobed berries have a sweet taste and can be eaten fresh. They are traditionally used to make jams, jellies, and fermented beverages.
For Hovenia dulcis, the Japanese Raisin Tree, the primary edible part is the fleshy pedicel (fruit stalk) that swells and becomes sweet. These pedicels have a flavor often compared to an apple or pear. They can be enjoyed fresh, dried for later use, or incorporated into various desserts and beverages. The dried pedicels resemble and taste like raisins, hence the common name.
Beyond culinary uses, the Japanese Raisin Tree has traditional applications in East Asian medicine. The plant, particularly its fruit stalks, contains compounds used for alcohol detoxification and as a hangover remedy.
Distinguishing Raisin Bushes from Grape Vines
The most significant distinction between “raisin bushes” like Grewia occidentalis and Hovenia dulcis and true grapevines (Vitis vinifera species) lies in their botanical classification and growth habits. Grapevines are climbing plants with tendrils that allow them to cling to supports. In contrast, Grewia occidentalis is a scrambling shrub or small tree, and Hovenia dulcis is an upright tree, neither exhibiting the climbing vine structure of grapes.
The fruits themselves also differ. True grapes grow in clusters and are typically round or oval. The Crossberry produces individual four-lobed berries, while the Japanese Raisin Tree’s edible part is a swollen, fleshy pedicel, not a true fruit. These visual and structural distinctions are key.
Furthermore, the process of making raisins is exclusive to grapes. Raisins are produced by drying harvested grape berries, which concentrates their sugars and flavors. The fruits or pedicels of Grewia occidentalis and Hovenia dulcis may be dried and resemble raisins, but they do not undergo the same commercial drying process as grapes. They belong to different plant families.