Grewia flava, the brandy bush, wild currant, velvet raisin, or raisin tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae, native to southern Africa. A common shrub species, it is spreading into grasslands due to human rangeland management practices, and increasing rainfall. The berries are sweet and edible, but have little flesh and so are typically collected to ferment into alcoholic beverages. The desert truffle Kalaharituber pfeilii is often found in association with its roots.
Velvet raisin has strong resistance to disease and is generally not prone to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When planted outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. However, smaller plants should be pruned after they have bloomed. Velvet raisint is suitable for anyone with an outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not require much care experience.
How to keep Grewia Flava.
Light
Velvet raisin comes from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest edges, which supply ample light. It flourishes in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adjusting well to various sunlight conditions.
Temperature
Velvet raisin comes from tropical areas, where the climate is generally warm and humid. As a result, it is adapted to high temperatures and moisture. It does not tolerate sudden temperature changes and prefers a stable thermal environment, so it is important to avoid fluctuations indoors. It usually cannot withstand cold and needs higher temperatures to grow. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Velvet raisin is in early spring, when it comes out of dormancy. This encourages overall growth and flower development. Fertilization improves the foliage, stems, and branches, and promotes larger, more vibrant, and longer-lasting flowers. It helps move nutrients from the roots to the flowers and enhances the plant’s health and resistance to disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Grewia
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m to 3.96 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m to 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- South Africa, Namibia, Eswatini, Botswana, Zimbabwe
Other names.
