Ternstroemia gymnanthera, a flowering evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, leathery leaves that are used in traditional medicine, as a food source, and to make tea

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Ternstroemia gymnanthera (mokkoku in Japanese) is a flowering evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan, China, and Korea. It has glossy, leathery leaves that are elliptic to obovate in shape and can grow up to 4.75 inches long and 2 inches wide. The leaves are dark green above and paler below, and they have a reddish petiole.

In the spring, Ternstroemia gymnanthera produces white, fragrant flowers that are borne singly or in clusters of up to three. The flowers are about 0.5 inches wide and have five petals. The fruit is a globose capsule that is about 1 inch in diameter and turns from green to red as it matures.

The leaves of Ternstroemia gymnanthera are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including fever, cough, and diarrhea. The leaves are also used to make a tea that is said to have a number of health benefits, including reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.

In addition to their medicinal uses, the leaves of Ternstroemia gymnanthera are also used as a food source. The young leaves are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. The leaves are also used to make a type of tea known as "thorn tea."

Overall, Ternstroemia gymnanthera is a valuable plant with a variety of uses. The leaves are used in traditional medicine, as a food source, and to make tea.

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