Coriaria ruscifolia SHANSHI (10 seeds)

Shanshi, also known as Redoul, or Coriaria in Latin, is a shrub from the Coriariaceae family. It grows in the mountains of South America, specifically in Chile and Colombia. This slow-growing tree reaches 4 to 7 meters in height in its natural habitat.

Its foliage is opposite, small, and elliptical with a smooth surface. The leaves are glossy and dark green. The flowers are small and white, grouped in inflorescences, and release a light fragrance. Flowering takes place in summer and early autumn.

The fruits of the Shanshi are small capsules that turn red or brown when mature. They are generally rounded and contain the seeds.

Tanner’s Herb seeds are black, small, and measure only a few millimeters in length.

- Uses:

The Ecological Secret of Leather Craftsmanship

The tanner's sumac is a woodland shrub traditionally sought after for the exceptional concentration of natural tannins found in its leaves and bark.
This botanical richness allows for the processing and tanning of hides in a completely ecological manner, while providing remarkable durability to artisanal leather.

A Natural Green Manure to Stabilize Land

In landscaping, this plant proves to be a valuable ally thanks to its biological capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen directly into the soil.
This unique characteristic makes it an ideal bank plant for naturally enriching the earth, stabilizing sloped embankments, and stimulating the growth of surrounding plant species.

A Source of Pigments for Traditional Textiles

Beyond its horticultural virtues, this wild variety has been exploited for centuries to create black dyes of absolute depth.
Textile artisans use extracts from this collector's Coriaria to durably color natural fibers according to ancient and environmentally friendly methods.

- Cultivation and Germination:

• The ideal period to sow Redoul begins in March.
• Stratify the seeds for 7 to 15 days in the refrigerator or directly outdoors during winter.
• Sprinkle them into a previously moistened peat pot.
• Cover the seeds with only 1 to 2 millimeters of substrate.
• Finally, water well by spraying gently.
• Place the pots in a location where the temperature is at least 20°C. A greenhouse is perfectly suited for the germination of this variety.
• Keep the substrate consistently moist, but never waterlogged.
• Germination typically begins 2 to 3 weeks after stratification.

- Type of Earth / Soil:

Coriaria grows well in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It tolerates different soil types but thrives best in light, loamy, or even sandy soil.

- Exposure / Light:

It prefers full sun. Sunny exposure promotes vigorous growth and better flowering, although it can also tolerate partial shade.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Its hardiness is quite interesting; it tolerates moderate temperatures but must be protected from severe frost, as it is sensitive to temperatures below -10°C. In cold climates, it is advisable to grow it in a pot and bring it indoors for the winter.

- Watering / Water Requirements:

It requires regular watering, once a week, to keep the soil slightly moist, especially during the growing season. In winter, reduce watering.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Propagation is mainly done by seeds or by cuttings. Cuttings from woody stems in summer are an effective method for propagation.

- Pests / Diseases:

It can be subject to attacks by aphids, scale insects, or spider mites. It may also be vulnerable to certain fungal diseases if moisture conditions are excessive.

This article was written by Julien on 07/09/2026.