Also known as Bird Claw Cleyera · Japanese Cleyera
Sakaki (Cleyera japonica) is an evergreen shrub known for its glossy dark green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and red berries. It's a versatile plant for landscaping an
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or shade, especially in hot climates.
Regular watering
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures but prefers mild climates; protect from extreme frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed in spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Check the soil moisture with your finger before watering to ensure it's not overly saturated.
Prune to maintain shape and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering, but heavy pruning is best avoided. Shearing can be done to encourage bushier growth.
Remove suckers that emerge from the base of the plant promptly.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining, moist medium.
Maintain high humidity and consistent warmth to encourage root development. Patience is key, as rooting can take several months.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years, and older plants less frequently, in spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering. Ensure good drainage holes in the pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sakaki (Cleyera japonica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Pentaphylacaceae |
| Genus | Cleyera |
| Species | Cleyera japonica |
Similar in genus Cleyera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
