Chionographis japonica — Edible Plant

Summary

Perennial reaching 0.3 m tall. Hardy to UK zone 7. Hermaphroditic species flowering April to May. Grows in sandy to clay soils with mildly acid to basic pH and prefers well-drained conditions. Tolerates semi-shade and prefers moist soil.

Description

Perennial reaching 0.3 m tall. Hardy to UK zone 7. Hermaphroditic species flowering April to May. Grows in sandy to clay soils with mildly acid to basic pH and prefers well-drained conditions. Tolerates semi-shade and prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

The leaves and young plants are edible, though no further preparation details are recorded.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan, Korea,

Cultivation

Prefers a moisture-retentive but well-drained humus-rich loamy soil and a position in light dappled shade. It is well suited to the woodland garden. Plants are hardy to about -15°c but they often require some protection in the winter, especially in areas where cold temperatures are prolonged.

Propagation

Seed is best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it is ripe where possible, otherwise in early spring. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and grow on in a greenhouse for at least their first winter, then plant out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts. Division can be carried out in spring or after flowering in summer.